Non-invasive technique to identify badgers

Journal

Mammal Review, Volume 33, Number 1, March 2003, pp. 92-94(3)

Blackwell Publishing

Authors

DIXON D.R - Benhay, 100 Furzehatt Road, Plymstock, Plymouth PL9 8QY, UK.

Abstract

Individual badgers can be reliably identified in the field on the basis of variation in the appearance of the tail.

Tests of the technique using video surveillance demonstrated that in 95% of instances individuals were identified correctly on the basis of tail patterns.

It is possible that tail patterns and posture may be a significant means of communication in this species.

Keywords

individual variation; social behaviour; tagging; tail pattern; video observation

Web site

• http://www.ingenta.com