Found an injured badger? What to do

What should I do if I find an injured badger?

The RSPCA advises:

1. Stay at a safe distance and watch whether the badger moves away. If it does, note where it goes.
2. Record the exact location using landmarks, road signs or a What3Words reference.
3. Call the RSPCA on 0300 1234 999 and wait for their advice.
4. Don't approach, pick up or transport the badger. Badgers may bite when frightened or in pain.
5. Don't put yourself in danger on roads, near rivers or railway lines, or on clifftops. Report it instead.

What if the badger is caught in a snare?

Don't try to free it yourself. A badger released from a snare may run off and die from its injuries. Call the RSPCA, and report snaring to the police, because snares that catch badgers can mean a crime has been committed. Photos of the scene can help, if it's safe to take them.

What if there's a badger on the road?

What should I do about a dead badger?

Sadly, road traffic is one of the biggest causes of death for badgers. Report a dead badger to your local council for removal, and to the Badger Trust reporting centre, which helps groups track dangerous roads. If you think cubs may be nearby, contact the RSPCA, Badger Trust or your local badger group.

I've found a badger cub on its own. What should I do?

Cubs normally stay underground for their first 8–10 weeks, so a small cub above ground on its own may need help. Call the RSPCA if the cub:

• is injured, shivering or collapsed, or in immediate danger
• has its eyes closed, or is very small (about kitten-sized)
• has been alone for 24 hours, or its mother is dead or its sett damaged

What if someone is harming badgers or digging a sett?

Call 999 if a crime is happening now and say it is a wildlife crime in progress. Never confront anyone. From a safe place, note the time, location, vehicles and descriptions. For a crime that has already happened, call 101 and tell your local badger group. Badger law explained