A carnivore long classified in the subfamily Mephitinae in the family Mustelidae (otters, weasels, mink, badgers, and their relatives), but since 1997 placed in the independent family Mephitidae along with the Oriental stink badger Mydaus. This new placement was based on convincing DNA evidence linking skunks (genera Mephitis, Spilogale, and Conepatus) and Mydaus genetically.