First data on capture, marking and radio-telemetry of badger (meles meles l.) in Bulgaria

Abstract

Being abundant, the badger (Meles meles L.) is one of the least concerned and thus one of the least studied animals in Bulgaria. The current paper deals with the first experience on capturing badgers for scientific purposes, the procedure of implanting radio-transmitters and the peculiarity of radio-telemetry on these fossorial animals. It examines the advantages and disadvantages of different capturing techniques on badgers and the use of radio-implants. The paper also presents the first data on radio-telemetry and internal body temperature, acquired through temperature sensor built in the implant for one adult female badger from Kyustendil region during the winter season. © 2009 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.