Badger Surveys can be undertaken at any time of the year, although there is an optimum time during Spring or late Autumn/Winter, when setts and runs are less concealed by tall vegetation.
A survey will look for signs of activity such as footprints, guard hairs, latrines, scratching posts and evidence of digging for food called ‘snuffle holes’.
If a development is so close to a Badger Sett that construction could put the animals at risk, then mitigation restricting development activity within close proximity of the sett or a ‘Sett Closure License’ may be required.
Badgers have expanded their range and numbers significantly in recent years and have become a common sight even in urban environments. Their diet is extremely diverse and versatile, ranging from insects, worms and fallen fruit to birds eggs and small mammals.
Active throughout the year, badgers do not hibernate and will dig new setts at any time of the year, preferring to dig into slopes or under features, such as sheds.
Active throughout the year, badgers do not hibernate and will dig new setts at any time of the year, preferring to dig into slopes or under features, such as sheds.