tejón

Tejón is the Spanish common name for the European badger (Meles meles). The species belongs to the family Mustelidae, which includes weasels, otters, and ferrets. It is a medium-sized mammal with a distinct black-and-white facial mask and rounded body. Adult individuals typically measure between 60 and 90 centimetres in length, excluding the tail, and weigh 5 to 15 kilograms. The dentition of the tejón is well adapted for an omnivorous diet, featuring sharp incisors for digging and molars capable of crushing plant material.

Distribution of the European badger covers most of Europe and western Asia, from the Iberian Peninsula to the Ural Mountains. In Spain, the species is found across the majority of the country, favouring habitats such as deciduous woodlands, open grasslands, and agricultural landscapes. The animal is fossorial, creating extensive underground burrow systems that can span several kilometres and contain multiple chambers for food storage and refuge.

Behaviorally, the tejón is mostly nocturnal and territorial. During the breeding season, males actively defend their territory and may exhibit pronounced aggression. Reproduction occurs in late winter or early spring; females give birth to litters of four to six offspring after a gestation period of about 42 days. The young remain in the burrow for several months before dispersing. Badgers predominantly feed on earthworms, insects, larvae, and a variety of fruits and berries, but may also consume small vertebrates and agricultural produce.

The species faces threats from habitat fragmentation, road mortality, and persecution due to perceived damage to crops and livestock. Conservation efforts in many European nations focus on protecting natural habitats, mitigating traffic risks, and fostering public awareness. The tejón holds a cultural presence in folklore and literature, often symbolising perseverance and resilience. Despite these threats, the European badger is currently classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, reflecting stable populations across much of its range.