This article is about the carnivorous mammal. For other uses, see Wolverine (disambiguation)

The Wolverine (Gulo gulo) is the largest species of the Mustelidae or weasel family, and is also called the Glutton or Carcajou. It is the only species currently classified in the genus Gulo. Two subspecies are recognised, the Old World form Gulo gulo gulo and the New World form G. g. luscus.

The wolverine is a stocky and muscular omnivorous (but largely carnivorous) animal with glossy brownish-black hair that can weigh up to 30 kg (66 lb) (male), and is 70–110  cm (27–43  in) long with a 20 cm (8 in) tail. It resembles a small bear with a long tail. It is considered to be very strong and ferocious and has been known to kill animals as large as Moose. In fact, its preference for reindeer have caused it to be hunted significantly in areas depending economically on caribou herds, to the extent that its existence might be considered to be in danger in some regions. It is generally not aggressive towards humans, preferring to avoid human contact. However, because a wolverine will attack an animal caught in a trap, early trappers often tried to kill them. They have been known (and been filmed) to capture kills from other predators, such as polar bears or a wolf pack.

It is currently found primarily in arctic regions such as Alaska, northern Canada, Siberia and Scandinavia. Before the widespread European settlement of North America, however, it was found as far south as California. A small number remain in the Rocky Mountain states, centered around Yellowstone National Park. The present worldwide wolverine population is unknown, although it appears that the animal has a very low population density throughout its range, possibly as a result of illegal hunting. Note that wolverines, especially male wolverines, require large home ranges. The wolverine is still trapped for its fur in some parts of its range.

Wolverines mate in the summer, but implantation in the uterus is delayed until early winter, which delays the development of the fetus. Females often will not produce young when food is not abundant. The young, usually 3 or 4, are born in the spring. The young "kits" develop rapidly, becoming adult size within their first year, which is their first of up to 13.

The state of Michigan is known as the Wolverine State, and University of Michigan's sports teams are named after the wolverine. However, the animal is hardly a common sight in the state. One was observed in February 2004 by hunters and biologists, marking the first time in roughly two centuries a wolverine had been positively identified in Michigan. It is not known if that particular animal was a native of the state or if it had come there on its own or with the aid of humans.

Heraldry

It was once inquired by Olaus Magnus whether the banners in some royal flags (e.g. English, Scandinavian) are supposed to be figures of lions, panthers, or leopards, or whether they originally were intended to depict wolverines. He concluded that the creatures in question were, in fact, lions and that Saint Methodius, who mythologized Goths' using bear-like creatures in war, actually referred to lions and not to wolverines.

Besides coats of arms, it might also be found on the famous Gniezno Cathedral bronze door: a sketch of a treenailed boat with heads on the stem and stern post.

External links

Species account at the Wolverine Foundation's web site