The wolverine is a stocky, muscular carnivore of the far north, famous for its strength and stamina. It is a scavenger and hunter that thrives in cold, snowy landscapes, and it is rarely seen because it lives at low densities over vast areas.
Interesting facts
- It is the largest land-dwelling member of the weasel family.
- Powerful jaws let it crush frozen bones and eat frozen carcasses.
- Wide, furry feet help it travel over deep snow.
- Female wolverines dig their dens in deep snow that lasts into spring.
- Wolverines can cover 30 km or more in a day, climbing steep mountains.
- In the United States, the wolverine was listed as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 2023.
Behaviour
Wolverines are solitary and roam territories that can exceed 1,000 km². They scavenge carcasses left by wolves and other predators, and hunt animals trapped in deep snow. They store food in snow and rock crevices.
Breeding and young
Wolverines mate in summer, but implantation is delayed until winter. Two to four kits are born in a snow den in late winter or early spring.
Threats and conservation
Climate change reducing spring snow cover, trapping, conflict with reindeer herders and sheep farmers, and habitat fragmentation.
Where to see it
- Kuhmo region, Finland, from photography hides
- Northern Sweden and Norway
- Yukon, Canada, and Alaska
- Glacier National Park, Montana (very rare)
Status source: IUCN Red List. Profile last reviewed September 2026.
Banff and Jasper Wildlife Guide
Bear and Wolverine Watching in Finland
