Of course, these are "averages" for the UK. If you live in the far North, your badgers may be a week or two later; or in the South a week or two earlier.

January

Badgers still spend a lot of time in the relative warmth of their underground sett. However, badgers do not hibernate; and they will come outside to feed (even in snow - see our Pictures page for proof of a snow-loving Russian Badger).

February

This is the time when most badger cubs are born. It is also the time when most mating occurs and when a great deal of territorial marking and disputes occur.

March

Signs of territorial marking are obvious, and bedding collection is a prominent activity.

April

Badgers will be coming out of their setts before full darkness; and this is when the cubs will be first emerge from their underground home for the first time.

May

Mating occurs some more; and the cubs begin to explore their surroundings as they become more courageous.

June

Most cubs are now weaned and have started foraging with the female (sow). Emergence from the sett can be very early - especially for cubs with an independent streak!

July

The cubs have now begun to play less and eat more. Badgers will go off to feed fairly quickly after emergence from the sett if the weather is dry.

August

This can be one of the worst times for cubs - especially is the weather is dry. Drought conditions can be harmful (especially for cubs). The adults may well be eating cereals and wasps nests now.

September

The sows become ready for mating again and much mating occurs. This is also a peak time for the collection of bedding and digging.

October

The badger now has to put on weight rapidly, and will eat more things - especially fruits and nuts.

November

Food now becomes harder to find; and badgers tend to emerge from the sett later and later. Also, due to the lack of food, they tend to start relying on their fat reserves.

December

Badgers, whilst not hibernating, sleep for longer and longer periods. They also emerge from the less much less often. It is also during December that the female becomes pregnant (even though mating took place as long ago as September).