how long is a badger pregnant for?
Badgers have unusual breeding patterns since mating can take place at any time of the year. After mating, badgers exhibit what is known as delayed implantation. They keep the fertilised eggs, in the womb in a state of suspended development until they implant at the end of December. Despite the presence of the fertilised eggs, female badgers can have further matings. Not only are mating opportunities maximised, but young can also be born at the best time of year (during warmer spring weather when food is becoming more plentiful). What causes delayed implantation? It is known that reproductive steroid hormones are taken up by the fatty deposits of badgers during the spring and summer. It is thought that these hormones are released when the fatty deposits are used up in the winter. The release of these steroids allows the fertilised eggs to implant. Cubs are usually born during the first fortnight in February in the south and west, but usually rather later as you go north in the UK. New-b
