Wildlife cameras are being installed at a cemetery in the Borders after Badgers were thought to have dug up human remains. Police were called to Jedburgh Abbey’s Churchyard last week when bones were found near several graves.
However, authorities confirmed that it wasn’t a crime, and forensic experts were brought in to help identify and date the bones. The Scottish Borders Council stated that they are working with Historic Environment Scotland (HES) to monitor animal activity and determine if badgers are indeed responsible.
Badgers Suspected in Grave Disturbances
A council report suggested that nocturnal animals might be responsible for the disturbed graves. Wildlife officers and ecologists from the local authority have been sent to the cemetery to collect evidence using trail cameras.
They are also thinking about putting up a barrier to stop animals from digging further. Staff from Historic Environment Scotland (HES) have taken the bones and stored them safely.
Forensic scientists from the University of Dundee’s Anatomy Center were asked to help determine how old the remains are.
Historic Environment Scotland (HES) stated that they are working with the Scottish Borders Council (SBC) to return the remains to their graves. A spokesperson mentioned that incidents like this can sometimes occur in old graveyards.
