A member of the Weasel Family (Mustelidae), American Badger (Taxidea taxus) is not considered to be a “true badger” but is called “Badger.” American Badger has a distinctive white badger-like stripe. He uses his strong claws to dig out small Mammals out of their burrows. This cunning hunter can dig faster than a person with a shovel. People tell stories of American Badgers digging though concrete. Like other Badgers, He prefers a deep underground burrow covered by undergrowth.
American Badger is a sophisticated hunter. He just not only digs out Rodents but also plans how to get as many as possible. American Badger plugs all the doors to Ground Squirrel’s burrows except for one. At that entrance, He digs out Ground Squirrel and eats Him. Or American Badger will dig a connecting tunnel into the one remaining entrance and wait for Ground Squirrel. When Ground Squirrel leaves, He pounces on the unfortunate animal.
American Badger is a formable fighter. His compact body and powerful claws gives anyone wanting to attack American Badger pause for thought. While his attacker is thinking, American Badger digs into the soil so fast that He disappears into the ground. He chooses when to fight and when to leave.
Unlike Eurasian Badger (“true badger”), American Badger is usually solitary. He also has a reputation for sometimes being too aggressive. Be mindful of both things when learning from American Badger.
American Badger teaches what to do when confronted. Either fight fiercely or take advantage of your opponent’s confusion and leave quickly. Learn fighting well from American Badger.
American Badger’s Teachings Include:
“Badger’s behavior is focused on the protection of his own physical form and on maintaining his separate well-being.” Copyright: “Spirit Animals and the Wheel of Life”, Hal Zina Bennett.
“Badger is a good sign, meaning protection, but he can also warn of danger when you are traveling in a vehicle or walking.” Copyright: “Spirits of the Earth”, Bobby Lake-Thom.
According to Dr. George P. Butler, Sr., American Badger also teaches 'aggression'. Read more about American Badger at his site. Do not forget to use your back button to return to this site.
American Badger’s Advice Includes:
“If things around you have gotten tense, and people seem to be backing away from the deal you thought was "done", your aggression and tenacity may be coming across as leaving no room for anyone.” Copyright: “Badger” from ”Medicine Cards”, David Carson and Jamie Sams.
One difference between Eurasian Badger and American Badger is that Eurasian Badger is sociable, while American Badger is solitary. They are also different species in the Weasel Family.
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Photo of American Badger courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Va. Carper
August 25, 2005