The honey badger (Mellivora capensis) is famously fearless and tough, often taking on animals much larger than itself—including lions, if provoked. It has incredibly thick, loose skin that allows it to twist and bite even when a predator has it pinned. Known for raiding beehives despite painful stings, honey badgers love honey and larvae, but their diet is wildly varied. They’ll eat everything from snakes to fruit. I came face to face with this one years ago on my first trip to Botswana, in the Kalahari desert. Nikon D300 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 360mm) ISO 800, f/5.6 at 1/200th of a second.
Thanks Michael. My guide knew that this honey badger came through the same area most days, so we made a makeshift blind and I got inside and waited. Luckily it showed up that day.
I love these feisty guys! Great (and brave!) pic! My husband has “affectionately” called me a honey badger (4’11” and usually not to be messed with–LOL)
We use cookies to enhance your experience while using our website. If you are using our Services via a browser you can restrict, block or remove cookies through your web browser settings. We also use content and scripts from third parties that may use tracking technologies. You can selectively provide your consent below to allow such third party embeds. For complete information about the cookies we use, data we collect and how we process them, please check our Privacy Policy
The honey badger (Mellivora capensis) is famously fearless and tough, often taking on animals much larger than itself—including lions, if provoked. It has incredibly thick, loose skin that allows it to twist and bite even when a predator has it pinned. Known for raiding beehives despite painful stings, honey badgers love honey and larvae, but their diet is wildly varied. They’ll eat everything from snakes to fruit. I came face to face with this one years ago on my first trip to Botswana, in the Kalahari desert. Nikon D300 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 360mm) ISO 800, f/5.6 at 1/200th of a second.
Wow, talk about getting down to your subjects level! Impressive perspective and unique.
Thanks Michael. My guide knew that this honey badger came through the same area most days, so we made a makeshift blind and I got inside and waited. Luckily it showed up that day.
Those eyes!!
Handsome for such a fierce creature.
Wow, that loose skin is an amazing tool in its survival quiver, I had no idea.
Indeed. Predators, including lions, have a hard time dealing with it and eventually give up as the honey badger fights back.
I love these feisty guys! Great (and brave!) pic! My husband has “affectionately” called me a honey badger (4’11” and usually not to be messed with–LOL)
Ha, good to know if we ever meet.