Badgers
Badgers can be very dangerous animals and should only be handled by experienced personnel.
Once you have assessed that a badger is in need of assistance contact your local wildlife hospital or telephone Tiggywinkles on 01844 292292.

When to assist

Single orphan after surveillance
Badgers will only come above ground if there is a problem, they will also give out very loud distress calls which are best described as 'whickering'.
Badger cubs live in family groups in the sett.
As with all animals always observe from a safe distance to ensure the animal is really orphaned.

The badger is out during
the day
Badgers are nocturnal, sleeping all day and coming out at night to feed, they only ever come out during the day if there is a problem.

The badger has been hit
by car
A badger that has been hit by a car needs immediate medical attention.  Cover it with a blanket and call your local wildlife hospital for assistance.

The badger can be
approached
Badgers are naturally suspicious of humans and will run away if they sense your presence.  An animal that can be approached is in trouble.  Still leave handling to the experts.

Leg appears damaged
Badgers can still be very mobile even with a fractured leg, and it will take expertise to rescue them, call for assistance

Dragging both hind legs
Can indicate a fractured spine, contact your local wildlife hospital to rescue the animal, never try to handle the animal, it can be dangerous to both you and the injured badger.

Has open wounds
Open wounds will need medical assistance to heal.

Any "apparent" orphan showing an injury
Any injured orphan must have medical treatment.

When to leave alone

All "apparent" orphans,
except when injured
Always observe from a safe distance to ensure the animal is really orphaned.

When you would endanger yourself or others
Never put yourself or others in danger to rescue an animal.