THE BADGER 
unmistakable traces of its presence in the woods and copses, where the 
turf and soil have been routed by the snout of the animal while searching 
for grubs or roots during these evening rambles. In autumn I have often 
found the nests of wasps dug out and scattered, as the larvae of the 
insects form a favourite food of the Badger, who finds no difficulty in 
^%g'"g out the combs with his claws, while his thick coat effectually 
protects him from the stings of the insects. 
The Badger takes life easily and passes a good part of it asleep in 
his den, though he is active enough when out at night on his rambles. 
His stronghold is an elaborate system of burrows dug far into the soil, 
and as a rule in a sloping bank, in which are various turns and corners, 
serving as vantage ground, where the animal can best defend itself against an 
enemy. Often there are several entrance tunnels to the fortress. 
The Badger is scrupulously clean and tidy in his habits, and makes 
a comfortable bed for himself of dead bracken and grasses which is 
periodically replenished or sometimes taken out to air and replaced. He 
seldom leaves his home in the daytime, but during the short summer 
nights may come out about sundown. 
On the whole, the Badger is a harmless and useful animal, devouring 
worms, grubs, reptiles, and various grubs and roots, though also partial 
to young rabbits, eggs, or other dainties he may come across. 
With his keen power of scent he is able to detect the exact spot 
where a family of young rabbits have been left in their underground 
nursery, when he will dig directly down on them. 
Though less active in winter the Badger does not hibernate, and 
wdll come out when snow covers the ground. I have seen their tracks 
as they left the neighbourhood of their earths, crossing a field to a 
distant plantation, showing where they made their nightly excursions. 
Three or four young are born at a time in spring. 
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