The Ratel (Mellivora capensis), also known as the Honey Badger, is a member of the Mustelidae family. They are distributed throughout most of Africa and western and south Asia. It is the only species classified in the genus Mellivora and the subfamily Mellivorinae
Appearance
The Honey Badger has a very distinctive appearance thanks to the stark contrast between the white fur on its upper parts and the dark colouration underneath. Its fearsome front claws and tremendous strength make it a very efficient digger, a talent it uses both in digging up dung beetles for food and burrowing for shelter.
They have a great appetite for ravaging beehives. This causes conflicts with commercial honey producers, some of whom shoot, trap, or poison animals they suspect of damaging their hives.
A bird, the honeyguide, has a habit of leading Ratels and other large mammals to bees' nests. When a Ratel breaks into the nest, the birds take their share too.
In spite of their name, honey badgers are not attracted to beehives by the promise of honey, but rather by the bee larvae that provide a nutritious meal.
Honey badgers are badgers in name only, and belong to a rather exclusive club, being the only members of the sub-family Mellivorinae (the true badgers belong to the subfamily Melinae).
Feeds |
Contact