The past history and recent decline of Badgers Meles tneles in Essex: an analysis of some of the contributory factors

摘要: The past history of the Badger in Essex is reviewed. It shown that population has fluctuated past, and heavy gamekeeping pressure probably reduced numbers at turn century, although Badgers were never as rare early recorders believed. In recent years have been or absent many areas county because they did not afford suitable sett sites, a whole particularly good for Badgers. Against this already low-density population, 20 up to mid-1980s, 36 % known setts had disappeared, with agricultural activities being major cause losses, remaining there was 14 reduction number occupied by Also, modal size from six holes three. Direct disturbance affected nearly quarter all viable Essex. significance these findings evaluated, effects changing land use, disturbance, digging, road deaths sub-lethal levels chemicals on are discussed quantified where possible. possible continued fragmentation need further research particular aspects problem, value such data understanding pressures facing elsewhere Europe, highlighted.