A Brief History

The remains of badgers in Britain have been found dating back over 250,000 years. The badger (Meles meles) is a member of the Mustelidae family, its closest relatives being the Otter, Stoat, Weasel, Polecat and the Pine Marten.

Badgers occur in most British counties, but are most common in the south. They are great diggers and are well adapted for life below ground. Their underground home or sett is a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers which may have as many as fifty entrances or as little as one. They live in social groups each of which has its own distinct territory. Badgers love to play, an important activity in which cubs and adults join.

Mating occurs throughout the year, but due to a process known as delayed implantation, the cubs are born in February. Badgers are onmivorous and are primarily foragers dependent on earthworms. They also devour insects, wasp grubs, mice and some carrion.