Hoo Haven Rescues Rare Baby Badger

The wildlife rehabilitation center in Illinois takes in an unusual new patient.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 2:21am

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An abstract, impressionistic photograph in soft focus, showing the outline of a small, furry animal resting in a warm, natural environment, conveying a sense of care and rehabilitation.Hoo Haven's rescue of a rare baby badger showcases the wildlife center's compassion and expertise in caring for all creatures in need.Durand Today

Hoo Haven, a non-profit wildlife rehabilitation organization in Durand, Illinois, has rescued and is caring for a baby badger that was found on the side of the road. The 4-5 week old badger was brought to the center after a couple discovered it and contacted Hoo Haven for help. The center's director, Karen Herdklotz, says the badger is doing well and they are providing the specialized care it needs at this young age.

Why it matters

Badgers are not a common rescue animal for wildlife centers, making this a rare and unique case for Hoo Haven. The center's mission is to rehabilitate and educate the public about local wildlife, and taking in this baby badger aligns with their goals while also highlighting their expertise in caring for a wide variety of animal species.

The details

According to Herdklotz, the couple who found the badger on the road on Wednesday moved it to safety but it was still there when they returned home. They then contacted Hoo Haven, and the badger was rescued the following day. Herdklotz says the badger appears healthy, with no injuries, and they believe the mother may have been hit by a vehicle, leaving the young badger alone. At this young age, the badger has no teeth and requires specialized care like being kept in a warm incubator and being fed milk and baby food.

  • The badger was found on the road on Wednesday, April 10, 2026.
  • The badger was rescued by Hoo Haven the following day, Thursday, April 11, 2026.

The players

Hoo Haven

A non-profit organization dedicated to wildlife rehabilitation and education in Durand, Illinois.

Karen Herdklotz

The director of Hoo Haven, who is overseeing the care of the rescued baby badger.

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What they’re saying

“It was exciting. You know, when you get something that you've never had before.”

— Karen Herdklotz, Director, Hoo Haven

“She didn't have any bad feet, bad legs. She's well fed. The only thing you can think of is maybe mom got hit, and then she was, I don't know where to go, I don't know what to do, so help.”

— Karen Herdklotz, Director, Hoo Haven

“You have to figure out how old she is. Anybody who knows anything about badgers knows that they have an aggressive disposition. So, at this age, she has no teeth. She drinks milk and actually will eat baby food. Then she has to be where it's very warm. At least 94, 96. So that's why I have the incubator run. And then, they are always in the dark when they're this little.”

— Karen Herdklotz, Director, Hoo Haven

What’s next

Hoo Haven will continue to provide specialized care for the baby badger as it grows, monitoring its health and development closely. The center will also work to determine the badger's exact age and ensure it receives the proper nutrition and environment to thrive.

The takeaway

This rare rescue highlights Hoo Haven's commitment to helping all types of local wildlife, even those species that are not commonly seen in their area. The center's expertise in providing the right care for this young badger demonstrates their versatility and dedication to their mission of rehabilitation and education.