Overview
Compact, powerful and famously tenacious, the honey badger is one of Africa’s most resourceful small predators. Also known as the ratel, it has a low, muscular body, long claws and a broad pale stripe running from the top of the head along the back.
Their reputation for fearlessness comes largely from the way they defend themselves when cornered. Thick, loose skin allows a honey badger to twist within an attacker’s grip, while powerful jaws and claws make it a formidable opponent. Even so, it does not seek out unnecessary fights and usually relies on avoidance, digging or escape where possible.
Behaviour & How to Identify
Look for a heavily built animal with short legs, a broad head and a striking two-tone coat. The upper body is pale grey or white, while the face, underparts and legs are dark brown or black.
Honey badgers are usually solitary and most active at night, although they may forage during daylight in cooler conditions or where disturbance is low. They travel widely in search of food and often shelter in burrows that they dig themselves or take over from other animals.
They are also intelligent and persistent problem-solvers. Captive individuals are well known for manipulating objects and overcoming barriers, while wild honey badgers must constantly adapt their hunting methods to very different kinds of prey.
Interesting facts
They raid beehives for more than honey. Bee larvae, pupae and waxy comb are often the main rewards inside a nest.
Their loose skin helps them fight back. If seized, a honey badger can twist within its own skin and turn towards the attacker.
They have some resistance to certain snake venoms. Molecular adaptations reduce the effects of some neurotoxins, but they are not completely immune to all venomous bites.