Wolverines are stocky, muscular animals with a characteristic bushy tail. They have a dense, dark brown or black coat that provides insulation against the cold temperatures of their habitat. The fur is also water-resistant, allowing wolverines to swim and move through snowy terrain with ease.
Size
Wolverines are relatively small animals, with males typically weighing between 11 and 20 kilograms (24 and 44 pounds) and females weighing between 8 and 15 kilograms (18 and 33 pounds). They measure approximately 65 to 85 centimeters (26 to 33 inches) in length, not including the tail, which adds an additional 18 to 26 centimeters (7 to 10 inches).
Head and Face
The wolverine's head is broad and rounded, with a short, wide muzzle. Their eyes are small and dark, and their ears are short and rounded. Wolverines have a distinctive facial mask that extends from the bridge of their nose to the forehead, often referred to as a "bandit mask" or "mask of Zorro." This mask is typically a lighter color than the rest of the fur and helps camouflage the animal in its surroundings.
Claws and Feet
Wolverines have five sharp, retractable claws on each foot. These claws are used for digging, climbing, and hunting. The feet are large and well-padded, which provides traction and support when moving through snow and rough terrain.
Teeth
Wolverines have strong teeth that are adapted for hunting and scavenging. Their molars are broad and flat, which allows them to crush bones and chew through frozen meat. Their sharp canines are used for slashing and tearing prey.
Tail
The wolverine's tail is long, bushy, and well-furred. It serves multiple functions, including:
* Balance and agility: The tail helps the wolverine maintain balance when climbing and navigating through rough terrain.
* Insulation: The thick fur on the tail provides additional warmth in cold climates.
* Communication: Wolverines use their tails to communicate with each other, expressing different emotions and intentions through various tail positions.
Overall, wolverines exhibit physical characteristics that enable them to survive and thrive in their harsh subarctic and alpine habitats, where they are renowned for their strength, agility, and resourcefulness.