The badger is a very strong animal, Its skeleton has evolved to suit its way of life, with short tough legs and strong claws for digging, a low slung body for negotiating tunnels easily and a Sagitall crest ( or ridge ) on top of the skull for protection. This also provides the attachment for very powerful jaw muscles and neck ligaments.

Skeleton of an adult male.

One thing that is most noticeable about the skull of a badger when compared with skulls of other mammals is that the lower jaw always stays locked into the sockets on either side of the skull.
This arrangement means that the actual jaw, bone is in a position over the hinge of the jaw, so that the  jaw cannot be dislocated and also means that badgers can give a very powerful and serious bite.


         Adult skull showing