Just like sharks and a few other spirit animals, Skunks have had a bad rap due to popular media. Most people think of them as synonymous to the bad odor that they can give off in self-defense. However, this is just a small part of the Skunk’s personality. As a whole, Skunks are very interesting creatures that can teach us about what it means to stand out and be distinct.
Skunk Symbolism Facts & Meaning: A Totem, Spirit & Power Animal
Skunks can be pretty adorable, if not feisty. But do not make the mistake of aggravating one, for it can be very defensive! This is when the Skunk’s unique defensive method comes to play. It gives us important insight, too. Just when is it right to defend oneself this way, by exposing the “stink” of another?
I
Skunk Symbolism & Meaning
Everything about the Skunk makes sure it is highly noticeable. Its white stripe is as much a marker as anything, and its attitude makes it apparent that it is not meant for blending in. This stands in contrast to many animals, whose primary means of defense is camouflage.
As humans, this stands as a lesson for us. The Skunk is telling us that we shouldn’t be afraid to stand out. Many of us think that being unique means sticking out like a sore thumb, a sure way for enemies to attack and ridicule us. But the Skunk shows that this should be the least of our concerns. To stand out is to be closer to new opportunities. To stand out is to let your voice be heard, to be able to make a much-needed change!
II
Skunk Spirit Animal
When the Skunk waltzes in as your spirit animal, it is encouraging you to stand up for yourself and those you care for. It understands that sometimes you just have to fight fire with fire. This stands especially when you are the underdog, fighting solo against the power and influence of somebody else. Raise a stink, if you have to!
But note the way that the Skunk uses its means of defense. It doesn’t just throw it around like a stink bomb. Instead, it is directed solely at the enemy. This is also important, considering so many of us go on destructive rampages when we get angry.
It should be basic human ethics to attack just the deed, and not the person, and even the Skunk knows this. Defensive anger, when directed properly, can be a useful thing.
III
Skunk Power Animal
Call on the Skunk when you need to increase your self-esteem especially against odds stacked against you. There are moments when problems loom so big in life that we think we are just a small speck. We start to lose meaning. But no! The Skunk isn’t big, nor is it strong, nor is it incredibly fast. But it knows that it has its value, and it stands up despite anything.
The Skunk is also helpful when you feel that you are losing the respect of people around you. Respect is something earned, not given. So don’t expect them to look up to you when all you do is bow your head to be one of them! Be true to yourself, and respect is not far off.
IV
Skunk Totem Animal
People born under the Skunk totem can be seen as very sensitive. They are defensive, and they can get triggered by the actions of other people. They react easily, too. This can be channeled in the right direction when the sensitivity is used to react to quickly changing events. A Skunk person is prone to having all his fingers on all strings, allowing him to act just as opportunities present themselves.
Of course, however, the Skunk token can be abused when the Skunk person allows everything to dictate his actions. Hence, the Skunk totem has to be balanced with another one that lends prudence and mental/emotional grounding.
V
Skunk Native American Symbolism
The Skunk is mostly seen as an antagonist in Native American belief, largely because of their smell. It replaces the black cat as a symbol of bad luck. However, other tribes also admire the Skunk as great defenders, especially when those they value are at stake.
VI
Skunk Celtic Symbolism
Skunks are native to North and South America, and as such they were not seen by the Ancient Celts.
VII
Skunk Far Eastern Symbolism
Asia has not also seen Skunks until they have been imported in later years. Therefore, the Skunk does not appear in the vast Far Eastern pantheon of animal symbols. Instead, their traits had been distributed to other animals such as the dog.
VIII
Skunk in Dreams
When you see a Skunk in your dream, it is a reminder that you have to stop waiting for change — instead, go out there where change is waiting, and grab it! The Skunk is ever forward, and does not like lying in to wait.
Alternatively, there may be a big change approaching, which can make you feel down. You may instinctively duck for cover, or cower as you wait for the approaching storm. Heads up! Casting your eyes down would mean you will be missing some things, and Skunks don’t like missing things!
IX
Skunk Encounters / Skunk Omens
When you see a Skunk, it is also important to look at your demeanor to see if you are not driving people away. Remember that the Skunk’s actions are always for a reason, and they never use their traits and abilities indiscriminately. Things in this world are only useful when done right, and put in the right place.
X
Skunk Mythology and Folklore
According to some Native American myths, the Skunk’s spray used to be poisonous in the past. This was until the Skunk had been defeated by a local hero, or another animal. There are also stories of the Skunk using its traits to take revenge against people and animals who have committed crimes or affronts to others. They have also been believed to ward off diseases, because of their smell.
Whatever it is portrayed, the Skunk is treated with a measure of respect that is well above its stature. To us, this is inspiration coming from an unlikely creature!
