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Pawprints such as these are one of the many signs that spring is on its way. They belong to the European badger (Meles meles), a well-known native species here in Ireland. Over winter, Badgers enter what is known as ‘winter sleep’. During this time, their activity levels are significantly reduced, and they rarely venture outside their setts. Like many mammal species around the world, badgers use this time of rest to survive the cold winter, when there may be a shortage of food.
As spring approaches, badgers begin to emerge from their setts more often to feed. In particular, female badgers must refill their energy supplies to support their young. Badger cubs are born underground, typically from January – March. The cubs will spend the first 8 weeks of their lives in a nesting chamber, where their mother will return to them every day. From the end of April onwards, pups will periodically come to the surface to play and learn to forage.
Badgers are nocturnal animals and will usually stay in their setts until sunset. Occasionally, during the summer months, badgers will emerge to the surface before dark. But, for the most part, they will remain underground until dusk. This can make spotting them very difficult for the average nature enthusiast. If you think you have badgers in your area, keep an eye out for tracks in the mud.
Veon Ecology 2021