22 NOVEMBER 1913, Page 18

THE BA_DGER'S DIET.

[To THE EDITOR 07 THE " SPECTATOR."] SIR,—In the interesting article in your issue of November 8th I notice that one article of the badger's diet is not mentioned. This is the tuber of the wild arum (Arum macula/um), which early in the spring, as soon as the leaves appear, is frequently dug up and eaten, although so poisonous to the human subject that the smallest morsel is sufficient to cause severe blistering of the mouth and throat. I venture to call your attention to this, as I do not think that the badger's habit of eating these mu In s has been recorded by any other observer.—I am, Sir, &c.,

MATTE) W. HANILAND.