Badgers and The Law

Badgers are protected by the Badger Act of 1992 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act of 1981.

It is illegal to:

• kill or injure a badger,
• dig or take a badger,
• possess a dead badger or part thereof,
• interfere with or disturb a badger sett or
• allow a dog to be put in a sett – except by licence from Defra or English Nature.

Unfortunately setts are often targeted by criminals wanting to take badgers for the disgusting so-called ‘sport’ of badger-baiting.  Diggers, also known as terriermen, baiters or lampers, are known to be active in the East Riding.  Sometimes fights are arranged right outside the sett, always between one badger and several dogs.  Often the badger is maimed or injured to give the dogs a chance.  Horrific injuries are caused to the dogs, but the badger, after putting up a fierce fight, dies in agony. Please help to stamp out this foul cruelty!

So what should I do if I think a sett is being attacked? 

If you know or suspect that digging is occurring at a badger sett, then the Police and your local Badger Group should be informed promptly. PHONE 999 – If you believe digging is actually in progress or about to happen.  Be clear and precise about the location of the sett and give as much information as you can

• Number of vehicles and people involved
• Are dogs present?  What type?
• Are spades or guns being carried?

NEVER ENDANGER YOURSELF

...but if possible note vehicle registration numbers, types of vehicle and breed of dogs that are present and any other relevant information. PHONE 0845 606222 (or 606247 from Filey up country) if you find evidence that digging has occurred in the past and again, give as much detailed information as you can. 

If any animal is thought to be injured then request that the RSPCA attend.  Take photographs of any disturbance and any spades etc. that may have been left lying around.If the Police don’t respond within a few hours then gather any spades or other relevant evidence together for safe keeping until they arrive.  Let them know you have done this.

Do not presume someone else will do all this; be pro-active in stopping wildlife crime.

Please keep a regular check on any setts near you.  

It could make the difference between life or a horrible death for the badgers. We cover such a large area of Yorkshire that we need everyone who is able to help.