The honey badger is the largest carnivorous mammal in Africa. Adults measure 9-11 inches tall, 22-30 inches long (not counting their tail that can add another 11 inches), and weigh 11-35 pounds with females being the smaller sex. Even though the honey badger is long like a weasel, they are thick-set and broad along their back adding to their formidable appearance.

The honey badger can be found in Southwest Asia, Africa, and the Indian Subcontinent. They usually prefer dry areas but can be found in grasslands and forests. Despite its name, they are more closely related to weasels than badgers.

Honey badgers are omnivores eating things such as berries, roots, lizards, turtles, frogs, honey, and more. It finds a large portion of its diet by digging prey out of burrows using its strong claws. Honey badgers have also been seen using their strength to pick up rocks or tear apart tree bark in search of food. Unsurprisingly, honey badgers will even chase off predators for their kill.

Even though honey badgers can mate yearlong, mating activity is slightly more common from September to December, which is during the dry season. After mating, females will give remain pregnant for about 6 months before giving birth to 1-2 blind cubs. The cubs will stay in their burrow for 1-2 years before leaving on their own. Since female honey badgers spend a long time caring for their young, the competition for males to find a mate is high.

Honey badgers are known for fearlessly and ferociously attacking almost any animal that encroaches upon its burrow or if the honey badger feels cornered. Besides its strong claws, their loose skin allows them to twist freely, and the skin on their neck is 0.24 inches thick. Their general coat is so strong that bee stings, bites, and quills rarely penetrate it!