Hey there! We've recently started taking down a really old and rotting deck in our backyard. While we were working on it, we stumbled upon what seems to be a badger set. We know badgers visit our garden, and our neighbors have mentioned they think theirs is a few houses down. We've paused our deck removal for now and are keeping an eye out for any badger activity. I'm concerned because we have two little kids, and I can't leave the garden unsafe with a half-dismantled deck and an exposed badger set. What options do we have? I want to make sure I protect the badgers while also keeping the area safe for my family.
3 Answers
That's so cool that you might have badgers in your garden! As for your plans on the deck, if you're thinking of rebuilding, try to keep some exit points for the badgers. If not, maybe you could plant some bushes or wildflowers around the area to give them some cover instead! That way, you can still enjoy your garden without disturbing them too much.
If it's just a big hole in the ground, it could be a fox instead of a badger. Badgers typically have multiple setts and can move around, so it might not even be occupied. I’d suggest setting up a trail camera to see what's happening there. But if you are thinking about rebuilding the deck, maybe design it to allow for badger access, or just create a nice little garden area around their spot!
Check out [this link](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/badgers-protection-surveys-and-licences#:~:text=Print%20this%20page,you'll%20need%20a%20licence) for guidelines on what you can do around a badger set. You might need a license if you want to work near it. But generally, you can clear some vegetation without causing any disturbance. Just steer clear of anything that might block their access!