Frequently Asked Questions
How big is a badger?
Badgers are our largest carnivore. They weigh between 10 & 12 kilograms. The male is usually larger than the female. In the autumn they can weigh heavier having put on fat for the winter. They can grow up to a metre in length.
Do badgers hibernate?
Badgers don’t hibernate but they slow down and use their body fats in extremely cold weather.
Why are badger’s faces black and white?
Badger’s stripes are thought to be a warning coloration as the badger has a very strong bite. These stripes are easily seen at night when badgers are active. They are very territorial and their stripes may help to warn away other badgers.
Where do badgers live?
Badgers will have several setts within their territory. The main sett is the one used for most of the year. Dung pits or latrines are placed around the perimeter of the territory to act as a warning to other badgers.
When are the cubs born?
Even though badgers can mate at any time of year, most cubs are born around January or February. This is because female badgers do not become pregnant immediately after mating. The fertilised egg is stored and does not begin to develop until November or early December. This is known as “delayed implantation” and ensures that cubs are born when food supplies are good. Usually a litter consists of 2 to 3 cubs. Their eyes and ears will be sealed until they are a few weeks old. They will stay in the sett until they are 10 to 12 weeks old, when they become independent of their mother’s milk.
What do badgers eat?
Badgers are omnivores. The main part of their diet is earthworms. They can eat over 200 in one night! According to seasons they will also eat insects, small mammals, carrion, fruit and cereals.