If you’re thinking skunk, think again. When threatened, the southern tamandua releases an odour from a gland near the base of its tail that’s around four times more potent than skunk juice. The male musk ox is another contender – it emits a strong musk-like scent that’s said to drive females wild during the seasonal rut.
The aptly named ‘stink bird’ or hoatzin (left) smells of cow dung because it eats leaves and belches methane, while the funk of the king ratsnake is said to resemble a heady mix of musk, urine and faeces. Pinch your nose and take your pick!