American Badger ⟶

In the 1820s, iron ore miners in Wisconsin didn't have permanent homes, so they dug temporary shelters into the hillsides. These miners were nicknamed "badgers," and the name eventually stuck to the entire state. American Badger - Behind the Adventure

: By constantly tunneling, they aerate the soil and mix nutrients, which helps native plants thrive. A Symbol of Tenacity American Badger

: Ground squirrels are tricky. If they see a coyote, they run into their burrows. If they see a badger, they run out of their burrows to outrun the slow badger. In the 1820s, iron ore miners in Wisconsin

: If the squirrel stays inside, the badger gets it; if it bolts out to escape the digging, the coyote catches it. This teamwork increases the coyote’s catch rate by about 33%. Ecosystem Engineers A Symbol of Tenacity : Ground squirrels are tricky

The American Badger is a reclusive, powerful predator that plays a unique role in North American ecosystems. Here are some of the most insightful stories and facts about these "underground architects." The "Wily" Partnership with Coyotes