Facts About the Seldom Seen Wolverine

I picked up an interesting book the other day with tales of a wolverine hunter who felt more like the hunted than the hunter. What made him feel that way? The wolverine.

Wolverines have inspired electronics, heavy duty work wear, super heroes and work boots. They are synonymous with strength and endurance. They are known to be strong fierce fighters.

  • The Indians believed him to be of the devil because of his uncanny way of plotting man's movements
  • They like to live and hunt alone
  • He/she has an incredible strength, and can lift the weight of two normal men
  • Normally they dine off of small animals such as rabbits, but have eaten reindeer. They will also eat dead animals they happen upon.
  • They inhabit North America, Europe, and Asia

  • Resembling a small brown bear he weighs approximately 25 to 30 lbs
  • They normally grow to a length of 2 to 3 feet or 60 to 90 centimeters
  • The wolverine is not related to the wolf, but to the weasel
  • He is shy, resourceful, and seldom seen
  • Although you may not see them, you can smell them because like most weasels the wolverine has glands that it often uses to mark its catch. If he kills a caribou or bear he will spray it with musk and bury it. Later he will come back and finish it.
  • The wolverine plots out his territory and places his/her musky smell throughout to advice other animals that this is his or her domain. The territory may cover 200 square miles.
  • He strikes fear in man, cougars, grizzlies, and one lone wolverine has been known to frighten off a pack of wolves.
  • The fur of the wolverine is known to be extremely valuable in that it is the only fur known to not hoar up with frost when breathed upon, making it sought after for trimming on parka hoods. The fur is also known for its durability and gets top ratings as the hairs do not break off so it lasts for years, keeping the wearer warm at subzero temperatures.

From the book “Marvels and Mysteries of Our Animal World”

  • Be prepared to battle if you take this guy on. He has long curved claws that can rip to ribbons, and razor sharp teeth that can maliciously destroy. He has been known to destroy many a trap that was set to catch him. He appears to be a worthy opponent, and one it would be wise to steer clear of.
  • The wolverine has bad eyesight, and moves slowly and clumsily. Because of this he likes to attack from a higher vantage spot jumping on his victim causing severe damage with a surprise attack.
  • His feet are like big furry snow shoes enabling him to move quickly across the snow
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Comments (20)
#1 by patrick regoniel
Jun 7, 2008
I never knew much about wolverine until now. Thanks Judy. Animals are fantastic.
#2 by Judy Sheldon
Jun 7, 2008
Patrick, thank you for reading and commenting, and yes, they are.
#3 by nobert soloria bermosa
Jun 7, 2008
interesting facts about wolverine, thanks Judy,
#4 by Judy Sheldon
Jun 7, 2008
Thank you, Nobert for reading. I thought they were pretty fascinating.
#5 by quiet voice
Jun 7, 2008
...Hi there, fierce seems to be a good
word for the animal. Very interesting
and informative. I love the name
wolverine. Take care.
#6 by CHAN LEE PENG
Jun 7, 2008
Interesting article though!
#7 by valli
Jun 7, 2008
Interesting facts.
#8 by Moses Ingram
Jun 7, 2008
Very interesting facts, bu I wouldn't want to meet one.
#9 by Jared Stenzel
Jun 7, 2008
That is pretty weird. They can lift the weight of two normal men as in the weight of two normal men combined or the weight that two normal men can lift combined?
#10 by Ruby Hawk
Jun 7, 2008
They look terrifying. I wouldn't want to meet one.
#11 by Judy Sheldon
Jun 7, 2008
Thanks, Jared, the text I found this information from re. the animal's strength read "A wolverine can move a log so heavy that two men would be required to lift it."

Quiet Voice, Valli, Chan, Moses, & Ruby, thank you for reading and commenting.

Take care.
#12 by IcyCucky
Jun 8, 2008
Very interesting facts that I didn't know!
#13 by Anne Lyken-Garner
Jun 8, 2008
They seem really mighty. They look scary too, won't want to meet one anytime soon.
#14 by Alexa Gates
Jun 8, 2008
very interesting! it\'s also U of M\'s mascot :)
#15 by Jared Stenzel
Jun 8, 2008
Thanks for clearing that up :)
#16 by Liane Schmidt
Jun 8, 2008
Whoa, he's a unique looking animal! Nice article.

Best wishes.

Sincerely,

-Liane Schmidt.
#17 by Judy Sheldon
Jun 8, 2008
Icy, Anne, Alexa, Jared, & Liane, thank you for stopping to leave a comment. It is truly appreciated.

Alexa, you know I have this huge book on Michigan facts and I scanned it looking for something about wolverines. I knew there was a link & could not put my finger on it. lol! Thank you.
#18 by Darlene McFarlane
Jun 9, 2008
They are a nasty little animal but I can't help but be intrigued by them. This is a great article...very interesting.

I love the head shot.
#19 by Judy Sheldon
Jun 9, 2008
Darlene, thank you for reading and commenting. They are intriguing & scary!
#20 by stephen
Nov 30, 2008
you guys r nature freaks
wow
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