Frequently Asked Questions about the Wolverine
The following Frequently Asked Questions come directly from the website of The Wolverine Foundation, a non-profit organization comprised of wildlife scientists with a common interest in the wolverine. This is an abridged version of the full list of questions and answers The Wolverine Foundation provides, which you can see here on their website.
Does the wolverine have a natural enemy?
The mountain lion, wolf and bear are predators of the wolverine. However, the human is recognized as the primary predator of the wolverine.
Do wolverines hibernate?
No. The wolverine is not a hibernating mammal.
When is the breeding season of the wolverine?
Breeding season occurs from June through August. The species exhibits delayed implantation and the young, known as “kits” or “cubs”, are typically born during February and March.
Can the wolverine climb trees?
Yes. Although not considered to display arboreal behavior, the wolverine can adequately climb trees.
Is the Tasmanian devil a relative of the wolverine?
No. The Tasmanian devil is a marsupial in the family Dasyuridae. The wolverine is a carnivore in the family Mustelidae (weasel family). They may resemble each other physically, however they are distinctly different.
Is the wolverine nocturnal?
Yes. The wolverine is the largest land-dwelling member of the weasel family.
How much does a wolverine weigh?
There is sexual dimorphism in the wolverine, with a typical adult female weighing 8-10 kg (17.6-22 lbs.) and adult male 12-14 kg (26.4-30.8 lbs.). We are not aware of a documented weight of a wild adult in excess of 20.5 kg (45 lbs.). The largest individual (male) that we are aware of weighed 25 kg (55 lbs.) and was born and raised in captivity.
Is the wolverine a relative of the weasel?
Wolverine “kits” are typically 110-120mm (4.33″-4.72″) in length and weigh 100-145 g (3.5-5.11 ounces) at birth. They are covered with white natal hair, their eyes are closed and they are truly altricial.
Are wolverines carnivorous?
Yes. The wolverine is carnivorous and its food habits are weighted to scavenging. However, it does consume some insects and vegetation e.g., berries, pine nuts.
How large are wolverines when they are born?
Yes. The wolverine is carnivorous and its food habits are weighted to scavenging. However, it does consume some insects and vegetation e.g., berries, pine nuts.
Does the wolverine have any other common names?
Yes. Some of the names that are still used in North America include; carcajou, skunk bear, Indian devil and ommeethatsees (Cree word, pronounced omaydatcheese).