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breeding habits in the region. Elsewhere they tend to be non-seasonal,
with a female producing 1–4 cubs (usually 1–2), of which often only
one is successfully raised. The gestation period is about 180 days. In
Turkmenistan, bordering north-eastern Iran, young are known to be
born in April–May.
Distribution and Status The Honey Badger is not common anywhere
in the region, occurring on the fringes of the Sahara in the south from
the Atlantic to the Red Sea, then in the west across Mauritania into
Morocco as far as the Atlas ranges and to west-central Algeria. It is
present in south-east Egypt and southwards through much of Africa.
It has a wide but sparse distribution in Arabia, across northern, south-
west and eastern Iran. It has not been recorded in Turkey.
Conservation Areas None known.
EURASIAN BADGER Meles meles
Identification This species is superficially similar to the Honey Badger
in build, with greyish grizzled upperparts and very dark to black
underparts and legs. The black and white facial stripes are distinctive,
as is the short, light-coloured tail. Animals tend to be heavier in
autumn than they are in spring.
Size Shoulder height 65–80 cm.
Weight 10–34 kg.
Habitat and Behaviour The Eurasian Badger shows a preference
for forest and densely vegetated terrain, and is commonly found in
association with cultivated areas. It is omnivorous, taking a very wide