Badgers

Badgers are eight species of robust, burrowing carnivores in the subfamily Melinae of the family Mustelidae, which also includes weasels, mink, marten, otters, and skunks. There are eight species of badgers, distributed among six genera.

Badgers have a strong, sturdy body, with short, powerful, strong-clawed legs, and a short tail. The head is slender and triangular-shaped. The fur of badgers is largely composed of long, stiff, rather thin guard hairs, with relatively little underfur. Badgers are fossorial animals, meaning they are enthusiastic diggers, often constructing substantial den-complexes, usually in sandy ground. Badgers are generally crepuscular, being active at dusk, night, and dawn. Badgers are strong, tough animals, and can readily defend themselves against all but the largest predators.