‘Very angry badger’ invades Scotland’s 16th-century Craignethan Castle
Craignethan Castle is described as the last great private stronghold to be built in Scotland. Photo: Historic Environment Scotland
A 16th-century Scottish castle noted for its impressive defences has proved to be no match for a “very angry badger”.
Craignethan Castle in South Lanarkshire, south-east of Glasgow, was breached by the nocturnal mammal on Saturday (local time), forcing staff to close the stronghold’s cellar tunnel to the public.
“We’re trying to entice it out with cat food [and] send it home,” Historic Scotland tweeted.
It is believed the badger has since retreated from the tunnel.
Castle staff tried to lure the badger out with cat food. Photo: Kallerna/Wikimedia Commons
“Our works team have used a Go Pro this morning to view the tunnel and it seems our visitor has vacated.
“We’ll keep the tunnel closed in the interim while we do a little housekeeping following its visit.”
According to Historic Environment Scotland, Craignethan Castle is the last great private stronghold built in Scotland.
Badgers are a protected species in the United Kingdom and cannot be wilfully killed, injured or taken.