Today we are carrying on with the subject of British wildlife. England, holds a hidden gem of the night - the elusive badger. Known scientifically as Meles meles, the European Badger has always been a symbol of both strength and mystery. Today, we will look at the magical world of this charming creature, discovering its secret life within the English countryside.
When the sun goes down and it becomes dark outside, Badgers come out. Badgers are known for their black-and-white markings and strong bodies. They're very well adapted for being active during the night.
Badgers live in homes underground, which are tunnels and rooms. They live in groups with other Badgers made up of families. These groups are called clans, and they include baby Badgers, young adults, and grown-up Badgers.
By Chris. P - Flickr: Badger 25-07-09, CC BY 2.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=17198934
Badgers eat a lot of different things including worms, insects, fruits, roots, and small animals. They're big eaters and leave signs of where they've been. They have sharp claws and strong front legs for digging so you will see holes in the dirt and claw marks on trees.
In the past, people in England have told stories about Badgers. They think of them as strong and brave animals with their black-and-white stripes. But nowadays, Badgers face new problems. The places where they live are disappearing because more and more people are building houses. There are also arguments about Badgers spreading a disease to cows. So now it is even more important to find ways to help Badgers survive in the English countryside.
Badgers are a special part of nature in England. They have hidden homes, live with their families, and enjoy delicious food. You might hear them at night or see them if you're very lucky. So, when you're out at night under the moon in the English countryside, listen to the sounds of the night and maybe you'll see a badger and its secrets that are waiting to be discovered.
Check your understanding
What is the main subject of the text, and what is the scientific name for this animal?
When are Badgers most active?
Where do Badgers live, and what are their family groups called?
What do Badgers eat, and how do they leave signs of their presence?
What are some of the challenges that Badgers face in modern times, as mentioned in the text?
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Vocabulary
Elusive: Difficult to find or capture, often because it's hidden or hard to spot.
Symbol: Something that represents or stands for a particular idea, quality, or concept.
Adapted: Well-suited or adjusted to a particular environment or situation.
Clans: Social groups or communities, often with shared characteristics or purposes.
Survive: To continue living and existing, especially in the face of challenges or threats.
Countryside: The rural or open areas outside of cities and towns.
Secrets: Hidden or unknown information or knowledge that is not widely known.
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