Wolverine
At the Detroit Zoo
Male Jigi was born in 2001 and arrived at the Detroit Zoo in 2002. Female Anna arrived in 2012 with a breeding recommendation. Visitors to the “wolverine state” can hail its two victors in their American Grasslands habitat north of the barnyard.
Description
The wolverine has small, round ears, a broad head and a long, bushy tail. It has dark brown fur with tannish-colored stripes on both sides of its body (running from its shoulders to its tail). It is a stocky and muscular member of the weasel family that more closely resembles the bear than other weasels. Its wide feet helps it to travel over various terrains (such as snow), and its long, non-retractile claws and powerful jaws help it rip into its food.
Scientific name: Gulo gulo
Continent: Asia, Europe and North America
Habitat: Remote forests and tundra
Size: 3 feet long; the tail can be 1 foot long
Weight: 24-45 pounds
Diet: The wolverine is a carnivore that eats squirrels and hares. It is also known to scavenge dead animals such as caribou.
Reproduction: Gestation 40 days; three to four kits in a litter
Lifespan: Seven to 12 years
Conservation Status: Least Concern
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