Honey badger

Scientific name: Mellivora capensis

How weight is recorded: Whole weight

Field notes

Appearance

A stocky, low-slung mustelid with a distinctive white or cream dorsal stripe running from head to rump, contrasting sharply with black fur on flanks and undersides. Males noticeably larger and more robust than females, with a broad head and powerful build.

Size and weight

Males 24–34 kg, 55–77 cm body length; females 12–16 kg, 50–67 cm body length.

Habitat

Honey badgers occupy diverse habitats from arid savannas and semi-desert scrubland to woodland and forest margins, typically below 3,000 m elevation. They thrive in areas with rocky outcrops and dense vegetation that provide denning sites.

Distribution

Found across sub-Saharan Africa from the Sahel savanna to the Cape, from sea level to montane regions. Absent only from dense rainforest and the most arid deserts.

Diet

Primarily carnivorous, taking small mammals (rodents, hyraxes), birds, reptiles, and insects; heavily raids wild bee colonies and seeks honey seasonally; opportunistically consumes fruits and carrion.

Behaviour

Primarily nocturnal and crepuscular, though occasionally active by day; solitary or in pairs; highly mobile with extensive home ranges; bold and aggressive when threatened, known for rapid digging and swift movement.

Hunting tips

Look for shallow, irregular burrows and freshly excavated den sites in soft ground or rock crevices; scat is dark and often contains hair or insect remains. Track shows five toes with claw marks; approach using cover and wind advantage during dawn or dusk. Move slowly and watch for characteristic bounding gait and low profile when crossing open ground.

Whole weight

This species is logged by whole weight — the animal weighed entire, as taken.

Where it is hunted

Listed as huntable in 3 countries in Huntify.

Names in other languages

These field notes are general species knowledge, not legal advice. Always check the current seasons, quotas and firearm rules where you hunt.