Scots ecologist who SAVED badger suspended from wildlife charity – who say animal may be euthanised

Ecologist Graeme Wilson, who rescued and nursed a starving badger named Harriet, has been suspended from a wildlife charity as the dispute over her future continues. NatureScot refused his application for an educational licence to keep her, while three wildlife organisations say she should enter specialist rehabilitation or may have to be euthanised.

Wilson says Harriet repeatedly returns after release and wants the right decision made for her. The British Wildlife Rehabilitation Council, Scottish Badgers and the Badgers Trust say she has become too accustomed to people for release and that captivity may not meet her needs as a social, burrowing animal. They say a zoo or sanctuary placement could be discussed, though they doubt any facility could provide suitable conditions; Wilson says euthanasia may be appropriate if humane captivity is not possible.