Ecological – Badger Sett Creation in Hertfordshire
Moving Badgers: A Delicate but Vital Task
Moving badgers is a sensitive and carefully regulated process, as these animals are protected under law. However, with the correct authorisation and under the supervision of an ecologist, badgers can be safely relocated to a more suitable environment where they can thrive.
Surveying and Planning
The process begins with an ecologist conducting a detailed survey of the existing setts in the area. This involves visual inspections and the strategic use of camera traps to determine the number of badgers present. Once an accurate count is established, a new sett can be designed to accommodate the relocated badgers.
For this particular project, it was decided that the new main sett would include five entrances, five chambers, and a couple of blind tunnels. Additionally, an outlier sett would be constructed, featuring one nesting chamber and two entrances.
Constructing the New Sett
To streamline the process, all the chambers were pre-built at our yard before being transported to the site. Each chamber was carefully set up and filled with straw, ensuring a warm and comfortable space for the badgers. To prevent unauthorised digging, the chambers were reinforced with plastic and metal mesh before the area was backfilled.
To enhance the surrounding environment, shrubs and trees such as field maple, hawthorn, and silver birch were planted on top of the completed sett. Once established, these will contribute to local biodiversity, providing additional habitat and food sources for a variety of wildlife.
Encouraging the Move
Once the new sett is ready, the process of encouraging the badgers to relocate begins. The ecologist baits the new sett with food to attract the badgers, while one-way gates are installed on the old sett to prevent them from returning.
