Honey Badger

Category: Environment / Wildlife / Species in News

Notes

  • Scientific name: Mellivora capensis

  • Also known as the Ratel.

  • It belongs to the Mustelidae family.

  • It has a wide distribution across parts of Africa and Asia.

  • Known for its:

    • Powerful jaws

    • Thick skin

    • Aggressive defensive behaviour

    • Ability to attack venomous snakes

  • In India, it occurs across several regions, excluding much of the Northeast according to the cited national assessment.

  • IUCN: Least Concern.

  • It is listed under Schedule I of India's Wildlife Protection Act framework in the cited assessment.

Key Pointers

  • Scientific name: Mellivora capensis

  • Family: Mustelidae

  • Common name: Ratel

  • IUCN: Least Concern

  • UPSC angle: Indian mammals and conservation status