Although many residents have observed a noticeable decrease in the local ground squirrel population this summer, there are obviously enough vermin around to keep several badgers fed. Regular sightings of badgers around the lake and near the highway are proof that they are still here. One yard along Boultbee Road houses two fresh badger holes, with at least one resident badger. Ground squirrels usually den up very early for winter, and sightings beyond the end of August are rare however the lush grass this year from the mid-summer rain may keep them, and their key predator – the badger, active a little bit longer into early Fall.