The ratel bites or claws into the nest and scoops out the honeycomb. Meanwhile, the honeyguide waits in the tree. When the ratel leaves, the bird eats the remaining dead bees, grubs and pieces of honeycomb. This relationship between two very different species indicates their behavior has been learned and developed to increase food supplies for both. Though shy and retiring, the ratel is extremely aggressive and fearless in certain circumstances.
Legends abound about the ratel's instinct to go for the groin when attacking.
There may be a basis for the legends, as adult male buffalo, wildebeest and waterbuck have died from loss of blood after being attacked by a ratel. Ratels are generally solitary but sometimes go about in pairs, though they are not necessarily mates. Little is known about the ratel's social life. They wander widely over a home range, but males are thought to be territorial. Scent marking is of the greatest importance, and they regularly and liberally apply secretions to crevices, holes and the base of trees.