Beyond the contested bovine TB cull debate, badgers face multiple other welfare challenges including road traffic mortality, snaring, and habitat loss that receive less public attention.
Badger welfare extends far beyond the TB cull controversy. Road mortality causes traumatic deaths year-round, with cubs often stranded after losing their mothers. Badger baiting, though illegal, still occurs and involves dogs attacking a restrained animal - the suffering is extreme. Snaring for pest control purposes can trap badgers accidentally or deliberately. A comprehensive badger welfare approach addresses all causes of harm: road design improvements (badger tunnels under major roads), effective baiting prosecution, careful snare design and use, and protection of setts from disturbance during the vulnerable breeding season.