The single species of wolverine
is a heavily built animal, immensely strong for its
size and capable of killing animals
larger than itself. Although largely carnivorous,
wolverines also feed on berries.
They are solitary animals, mainly ground dwelling,
but they can climb trees. The female
Wolverine bears 2 or 3 young in following spring, usually after a period
of delay implantation. Delayed implantation is an interesting phenomenon
allowing animals to mate at the ideal time and bear young at the ideal
time. The fertilized egg remains in a suspended state in the womb, and
development starts only after the required period of dormancy. The young
suckle for about 2 months and remain with their mother for up to 2 years.
They become sexually mature at about 4 years of age. In addition to hunting,
wolverines also scavenge the remains of animals killed by other predators
such as wolves and bears.
Wolverine are native to the northern regions of North America, Europe,
and Asia , whose habits are much like those of the badger. French Canadians
call this animal the carcajou, and Anglo-Canadians call it the quick hatch.
In Europe it is called the glutton. The Wolverine's body is heavyset, the
legs are short and thick, and the claws are long and curved. The head and
the tail are carried low, and the back forms a big arch. The eyes
are set widely apart, and the ears project only a short distance above
the head fur. The tail is short and extremely bushy, the individual hairs
being up to 20 cm (26 to 41 in).
The Wolverine can move swiftly; the animal usually travels alone except
during breeding season. The young are born January through April, usually
two to four to a litter. The Wolverine is now rare due to over hunting,
both for its fur and because it is viewed as a pest by some people.
Chase Boone
Coniferous
Forest
Land Habitats
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