The Making of a Diorama
The Habitat Views video considers ways of looking at dioramas today, and documents the creation of several new displays. Take a look over on our YouTube Channel >
Recreating Nature Indoors
Ever wonder who made the dioramas in our mammal halls? Read all about the artists who created these wonderful scenes. Learn more >
Our Exhibits Meet State Standards!
Our diorama halls are just one place where teachers and chaperones can meet State Standards! To download easy-to-use field trip guides that are aligned with Standards. Learn more >
Mammalogy Contacts
Jim Dines
Collections Manager
(213) 763-3400
jdines@nhm.org
David Janiger
Curatorial Assistant
(213) 763-3369
djaniger@nhm.org
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Badger
Taxidea taxus (Schreber, 1777)
Scene:
Mt. San Jacinto, near Banning, CaliforniaBackground artist:
Robert C. ClarkBadgers are solitary animals that are mainly active at night, and tend to be inactive during the winter months. They are not true hibernators, but spend much of the winter in cycles of inactivity or torpor that usually last about 29 hours. During torpor, body temperatures fall to about 48°F and the heart beats at about half the normal rate. Badgers emerge from their dens on warm days in the winter.
Biological Information
Range:
Southern Canada to south central Mexico
Habitat:
Plains and deserts, foothills and mountain meadows
Status:
Fairly common in appropriate habitats and are not considered threatened
Diet:
Rodents, lizards, insects, birds’ eggs
Further information about this species may be found on the Animal Diversity Web page for American badger.