The European badger, scientifically known as Meles meles, is a well-adapted mammal that can be found throughout the Comunidad Valenciana. This robust creature, often referred to locally as "tejón," is characterized by its distinctive black and white striped face, giving it a striking appearance.

Physical Description:

• The European badger has a compact, sturdy body with short legs, making it well-suited for digging.
• Its body is covered with a coarse coat of mixed grey and black fur, providing excellent camouflage in woodland and bushy environments.
• The head features a unique striping pattern, with black and white stripes running from the nose to the back of the head.

Habitat and Behavior:

• Badgers are primarily nocturnal, spending much of their day in underground burrows known as setts.
• They are omnivorous animals, with a diet that includes earthworms, insects, small mammals, fruits, and nuts, which are abundant in the diverse ecosystems of the region.
• European badgers are social creatures, often living in family groups, and they are known for their complex social structures.

Conservation Status:

• Currently, badgers are not considered endangered in the Comunidad Valenciana, but they play a crucial role in controlling insect and small mammal populations, thus contributing to the ecological balance.

The European badger remains an integral part of the local ecology and culture, reflecting the rich biodiversity present in the Comunidad Valenciana.