UW-Madison argues the terms encroach on its use of Bucky Badger. The university is opposing the bid by Ed Hirs, who teaches at the University of Houston.

Today’s cardinal-and-white-clad Bucky — full name Buckingham U. Badger — has come a long way from the first Badgers mascot, a live badger who made occasional appearances at football games.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison officially adopted Buckingham U. “Bucky” Badger as its mascot in 1940, according to a university publication.