Taxidea taxus
One of the most elusive and tough little predators of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is the American badger. Although they may not be seen as often as wolves or elk, badgers are incredible animals with powerful bodies designed for a life underground. When they do appear, whether crossing a sagebrush flat or emerging from a freshly dug burrow, they leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to spot them in Jackson Hole.
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Built for Life Below the Surface
Badgers are short and stocky mammals with coarse fur, strong shoulders, and claws perfectly shaped for digging. They typically weigh anywhere from 10 to 25 pounds, though their wide stance and low profile make them appear even more robust. A bold white stripe runs from their nose to the back of their head, standing out against darker facial markings. This unique pattern gives them a fierce look that suits their bold behavior. Their long claws and muscular forelimbs allow them to dig rapidly, creating burrows that may stretch several yards underground.
These burrows are essential for survival. Badgers use them for resting, avoiding temperature extremes, and raising their young. They frequently dig new tunnels while hunting, leaving behind fresh mounds of dirt as a sign of their presence.
Tenacious Carnivores
American badgers are specialized predators of ground dwelling mammals. Their menu includes ground squirrels, prairie dogs, voles, mice, and pocket gophers. They will dig directly into a rodent’s underground tunnel to chase them down, sometimes creating complex excavation systems in the process. If one escape route is blocked, the badger quickly begins another.
They are primarily nocturnal, making nighttime the busiest part of their hunting routine. Occasionally, however, they can be seen in the early morning or late afternoon hours. While they prefer small prey, badgers are opportunistic and will take reptiles, amphibians, insects, and carrion when available.
One of the most fascinating behaviors observed in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem is the cooperative hunts between badgers and coyotes. The two species benefit each other. Coyotes chase prey above ground, while badgers patrol the underground tunnels. If one misses, the other often succeeds.
Independent and Fiercely Protective
Badgers live solitary lives for most of the year. They only socialize during the breeding season, which occurs in late summer. Females internally delay the development of embryos until winter and give birth to one to five kits in the spring. Young badgers stay with their mother for a few months to learn essential hunting and digging skills before striking out on their own.
Despite their size, badgers are known for their strong defensive abilities. They will not hesitate to stand their ground, arching their backs and baring their teeth if threatened. Their thick skin and fearless attitude make them formidable opponents for predators.
Where Can I See Badgers?
Badgers are most commonly found in open habitats such as sagebrush flats, meadows, and grasslands. They favor areas with high rodent populations. Because they spend so much time underground and are active mostly at night, sightings can be quite rare. Fresh burrows or tracks in sandy soil might be the only clues that a badger is nearby, so if you notice these signs, keep an eye out for movement low to the ground and weaving around the sagebrush!
FAQs
Are badgers easy to see in Jackson Hole?
Not usually. Badgers spend much of their time underground and are primarily nocturnal. Sightings do happen, but they are considered a special treat. Evidence such as fresh burrows is often the first clue that a badger is nearby.
What do badgers eat?
Badgers are skilled hunters that specialize in catching ground dwelling mammals like ground squirrels, prairie dogs, voles, and pocket gophers. They are opportunistic and may also eat insects, reptiles, amphibians, and carrion when available.
Do badgers live alone or in groups?
Badgers are solitary animals for most of the year. They come together only during the breeding season and mothers will remain with their kits until they are old enough to survive on their own.
Can badgers be dangerous?
Badgers generally avoid humans, but they are bold and will aggressively defend themselves if threatened. It is important to give them plenty of space and never disturb a burrow.
Where is the best place to look for badgers in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem?
Open sagebrush flats, grasslands, and meadows are prime badger habitat because these areas support large rodent populations. Wildlife guides who understand their behavior and habitat can significantly increase your chances of seeing one in the wild.
Further Reading
Jackson Hole Wildlife
Jul 12, 2024
Thanks to the range of different habitats that scatter across the sprawling valley, there is a plethora of wildlife to be found. The forests house woodland creatures like foxes, mule deer, black bears, pine martens, and elk.
A Month by Month Guide to Grand Teton National Park
Jun 21, 2024
Each and every month has something special to note, meaning that no matter what season you visit will be a special time. Use this guide to determine what time of year aligns best with what your interests and goals are.