Badgers are often associated with western plains, but their presence in the Midwest, particularly Missouri, is a common question. This article explores whether badgers inhabit the state, their preferred environments, how to identify them, and their general behaviors.
Badgers in Missouri: Presence and Habitat
Badgers are present in Missouri, though they are uncommon, most frequently observed in the northern and western regions of the state, including counties bordering the Missouri River. Sightings are rare in the Ozarks. These animals prefer open areas like prairies and grasslands, where the soil is sandy and easy to dig. Their habitats also extend to croplands, fields, pastures, and yards, especially areas with burrowing rodents. Badgers also find shelter along roadways, fence rows, ditches, banks, and field edges.
Identifying Missouri Badgers
Missouri badgers, also known as American badgers, are identifiable by their stocky build and powerful digging adaptations. They possess a broad head, short neck, short legs, and a short, bushy tail. Their fur is typically grizzled gray, often with a slight yellowish tint on their claws.
A distinguishing feature is the white stripe that extends from their nose over the top of their head, often reaching between their shoulders. Black patches are visible on each cheek, contrasting with their facial stripe. Adult badgers weigh between 13 and 30 pounds and measure 26 to 35 inches in total length. Evidence of their presence often includes large, oval-shaped burrows, which are wider than they are tall.
Understanding Badger Behavior
Badgers are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night, though they may occasionally forage during daylight hours, especially females with young. They are solitary animals, interacting only during the breeding season. Badgers are strong diggers, capable of creating extensive burrow systems that can reach depths of 30 feet and lengths of 20 to 30 feet.
They dig primarily for hunting rodents like ground squirrels and mice, which form a significant portion of their diet. They also consume rabbits, insects, lizards, snakes, and bird eggs. Badgers are shy and avoid human interaction; they are not aggressive unless provoked or cornered. In Missouri, the American badger is recognized as a species of conservation concern.