Image credit: Christine Ker at Kittisford Barton
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**An update from John the farmer**
We're very pleased to introduce you to Kittisford's first two badger cubs of the season. John has sent over this lovely photo of the babies that was taken with the farm's nature cam. John explained how the camera works on a motion sensor, capturing either photo or video footage of passing wildlife, meaning he's always kept up to speed with the farm's goings-on.
Across Kittisford Barton John reckons there are at least four active badger setts. A sett can generally accommodate anywhere between a pair of badgers to a clan (or cete) of 20-30. It is essentially the family home. There is usually one dominant hole, and then several other minor ones hidden around the territory. At Kittisford the most active, and largest, is 'The Rookeries Sett' which is where this little family lives.
Badger watching certainly takes a lot of patience. But with the right weather and a bit of luck you'll spot one! In fact, there is a sett in the corner of the field where the tents are, and others are spread out across the farm. So keep your eyes peeled in the evening while sitting out on your front deck, or as you're wandering around the site; if the badgers are out then dusk is usually when you'll spot them.
When onsite, we can advise and direct as to where to go and what to do to for the best chance of seeing the badgers. It's a great location for all kinds of wildlife, so if you're not lucky enough to spot the cubs, you might get to see the deer grazing or nearby owls. There'll always be something out there!
Author:
Luci Ackers
Luci loves getting out and about for a good cycle ride or easy-going walks in the countryside, and thoroughly enjoyed the time she previously spent working for the National Trust. Her love of writing started from a young age and on rainy days nothing beats curling up in a secret corner with a good book.