A naturalist in the Highlands has uncovered evidence of a badger's violent raid on a wasp nest, with comb scattered across the forest floor. The observer, who has long sought to witness such an event, described the likely scene: the badger using its long curved claws to rip apart the soil, while enraged wasps futilely sting its thick, shaggy pelt. The badger then feasts on the protein-rich grubs inside.
Earlier this year, the same badger had targeted a bumblebee nest, leaving a gaping hole beneath a downy birch tree. The nest, home to white-tailed bumblebees (Bombus magnus), was completely destroyed, with no trace of cells, grubs, or adult bees. The naturalist noted that bumblebee grubs are likely a delicacy for badgers, akin to caviar and truffles.
In a separate incident, a honey buzzard (Pernis apivorus) was spotted near another crater, with wasp comb strewn about. The bird, a migratory kite with powerful claws for digging, glared at the observer before soaring away. It is now likely heading to Africa for the winter.
