Charles Darwin
Ratel (Mellivora capensis)

Ratel

Mellivora capensis

About the Ratel

The honey badger (Mellivora capensis), also known as the ratel (/ˈreɪtəl/ or /ˈrɑːtəl/), is the only species in the mustelid subfamily Mellivorinae and its only genus Mellivora. It is native to Africa, Southwest Asia, and the Indian subcontinent. Despite its name, the honey badger does not closely resemble other badger species; instead, it bears more anatomical similarities to weasels. It is classed as Least Concern rather than a threatened species by the IUCN owing to its...

Classification

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the scientific name of the Ratel?

The scientific name of the Ratel is Mellivora capensis.

How many Ratel sightings have been recorded?

1,237 observations of the Ratel have been recorded on iNaturalist.

1,237 observations on iNaturalist

Featured in Beat Darwin

The Ratel was Beat Darwin's Animal of the Day on challenge #8March 19, 2026. Can you identify it in 3 attempts?

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