Question

Some species in the weasel family, such as skunks, protect themselves by spraying a foul-smelling musk oil when threatened. Why would a spray defense be a useful mechanism for a species?

Answer 1

Before the animal is harmed they spray to keep the predator away 

Answer 2

ANSWER:

The correct answer is Spray can turn a predator away before an individual is harmed.

STEP-BY-STEP EXPLANATION:

Male skunks may battle about females, splashing each other all the while, and female skunks may shower guys they don't care for. With expanded movement, skunks are likewise coming into contact with risks all the more as often as possible, and utilizing that toxic shower is the skunk's essential (and for all intents and purposes just) guard instrument.  

The bitter frothy shower that leaves an uncommon organ found simply inside the butt-centric region is so toxic it will leave predators speechless. Luckily, these impassive critters give guidance ahead of time of their expectation and won't squander their liquids except if they have a generally excellent explanation behind it.