It is generally agreed that all the adult sows become pregnant, and it is thought that the dominant sown often kills of most of the other sows cubs that she is able to find as they are born. Many strange and far fetched beliefs exist concerning badgers. One belief is that badgers are provided with a patent locking device so that when once they have obtained a firm grip are unable to let go. In the same way one hears that a dog cannot hurt a badger. It is said that a badger's hide is so tough that he will emerge without discomfort from any kind of encounter with terriers.
Badgers feel and suffer just the same as all other warm blooded creatures.
Sending terriers down to a badger in a well established sett is a very cruel business, as a last resort the badger will use a ploy inherited from a long line of ancestors most likely defending themselves from wolves. The badger tucks his head tightly between his forepaws, presenting the very tough deep muscled area of the back of his neck to his enemy. As soon as the terrier gets a deep grip the badger uncurls so that the terriers throat is exposed to his teeth. When male badgers fight for dominance in the clan they first face each other, say a few choice words, reach their full height and sway and threaten each other. The suddenly they rush at full speed and try to grasp their opponents rump.