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Great Britain supports some of the highest densities of badgers Meles meles in Europe, with over 30 per square kilometre in some areas. National surveys carried out in the 1980s and 1990s showed that the population increased by 77% over this period. It is therefore not surprising that problems do sometimes occur. These can range from damage to agricultural land or crops, to undermining farm buildings or flood defences. The excavation of setts under roads and railways can be a risk to vehicles and human safety. Equally, normal agricultural, forestry or flood defence operations can sometimes have an impact on badger setts. Badgers are afforded legal protection, and penalties for offences can involve heavy fines or a prison sentence, so it is important that anyone working in the countryside is aware of how to work within the legislation. Please click on the link below to view the associated PDF: