Excavation of the disused badger sett

Excavation of the disused badger sett on the route of the new trackbed to the North of the station started today, closely supervised by our Consultant Ecologist who guided the excavation in accordance with the licence granted by Natural England. There were entrance holes, passages and nest chambers, but no badgers. It is likely that they have moved to other setts within the clan's territory which probably extends to something like half a square kilometre. The sett was thought to be inactive, but had to be checked by fitting one way (exit only) doors to the entrances which would allow any badgers present to escape. Sticks were placed against the doors to see if they had been opened. There was no sign of activity.

By the end of the day, the first section of the sett had been closed and half of the trackbed had been excavated to roughly the new level. Work will continue on the next section on Wednesday, weather permitting. There are likely to be fewer tunnels and chambers in this area. Work wil again be supervised by the ecologist.