Rare Honey Badger Sighted on Golan Heights

Wildlife experts say the Mount Dov footage is an important addition to the limited record of the species in Israel.

By Shula Rosen

For the first time, a honey badger has been captured on video on Mount Dov in the Hermon region.

The footage, recorded in early August using a thermal imaging camera, offers a rare look at one of Israel’s most endangered predators.

The animal was identified by its low body, short legs, and striking coloration, with a pale back contrasting against a dark underside.

Its slow, heavy movements also matched the species.
The video showed the badger confronting a larger animal, believed to be a golden jackal. Raising its tail and emitting loud cries, it stood its ground without hesitation. Soldiers nearby reported hearing unusual sounds during the encounter.

Although honey badgers are widespread in other regions of the world, in Israel they are now severely endangered.

Populations have disappeared from most areas, largely due to targeted killing by beekeepers. In recent decades, they have been seen mainly in the Negev and Arava. The last confirmed case was in summer 2022, when a honey badger was found dead after being struck on the Arava highway.

Known for their bold behavior, honey badgers rely on sharp claws and powerful jaws to hunt and defend themselves.

They also produce loud warning calls and release a foul-smelling secretion when threatened.

Wildlife experts say the Mount Dov footage is an important addition to the limited record of the species in Israel.