Kirk Stirnweis (Colorado, New Hampshire, B. 1967) "Badger" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Illustration Board. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood First Day of Issue Maximum Card of the 22c Badger issued on June 13, 1987. Snorting, snuffling, and waddling from place to place, the Badger is a curious creature seldom "badgered" by anyone. Preferring the solitary life, this mammal spends much of its time in burrows, away from the eyes of man and other predators. Using long, curved claws, the Badger can quickly dig itself out of sight in the dry, open lands it inhabits. A Badger's digging is also a way of retrieving food and or storing it, getting out of the summer sun for a nap, or preparing a winter home. Indeed, the Badger spends much of its life simply digging holes. The adult is about three feet long and can weigh up to twenty-five pounds. Its short, stocky body and long side hairs trailing the ground give it an unmistakable, almost amusing, silhouette as it moves about the western plains. But pound for pound, Badgers are some of the scrappiest fighters when cornered. Their fur bristles up, making them appear much larger; their sharp claws become a weapon backed by powerful jaws and strong teeth. Image Size: 13.5 x 18.25 in. Overall Size: 17.5 x 22.25 in. Unframed. (B10783) See More