In the Scottish Borders, an ecologist is battling to keep a badger he rescued from starvation, arguing that the animal is too accustomed to humans to survive in the wild. Graeme Wilson, who runs a wildlife rescue service called GW Ecology from his home in Denholm, was called out in April to help a cub named Harriet. She was discovered in a cattle trough about 100 meters (300 feet) from her sett, severely emaciated and dirty.
Wilson nursed Harriet back to health, but he believes she was hand-reared before he found her, making it impossible to release her back into the wild. "It was almost second nature when she saw the bottle," Wilson said. "I have cared for injured badgers before and never have I seen something like it. It was clear then she couldn't be released back into the wild."
NatureScot, the public body responsible for Scotland's natural heritage, turned down Wilson's application for an educational licence to keep the badger. The agency has suggested that Harriet should either be returned to the wild or sent to a zoo. However, Wilson contends that releasing her would likely result in injury or death, as she has imprinted on humans. "Badgers are companion animals, they are a social animal and unfortunately for Harriet she has decided that humans are her social group," he explained. "Can you imagine Harriet approaching someone on a dog walk or in the street?"
Wilson also rejects the idea of a zoo, arguing that Harriet would become lonely and suffer unnecessary distress. "Harriet's upbringing means she needs human interaction, not to be put behind glass and stared at," he said.
Despite support from several badger rescue groups in Scotland, Wilson admits there may be little he can do. Police Scotland has been made aware of the situation. NatureScot said talks are ongoing to find a resolution. A spokesperson commented, "We are continuing discussions with Mr Wilson and other relevant organisations to try and find a pragmatic solution to this individual situation. The welfare of the badger is, of course, key while we consider the circumstances of the case."
The Scottish SPCA advises the public not to handle sick or injured badgers, as they can become aggressive and inflict serious bites. Any cub found outside its sett before it is about 12 weeks old, or roughly the size of a domestic cat, likely needs help. The public should contact the SPCA if they spot a badger during daylight hours, as it may be in distress.
