Facts about Wolverines in Sweden

Welcome to an informative blog post about the fascinating wolverines in Sweden. In this article, we will explore the characteristics, habitat, behavior, and conservation status of these incredible creatures.

Wolverines are known for being aggressive, but we hope that you want to learn more about them and the importance of preserving their natural environment.

Are Wolverines aggressive?

Wolverines in Sweden unfortunately acquired an unfavorable reputation. Myths and traditional beliefs have portrayed the wolverine as a ruthless predator, a ferocious eater that derives pleasure from excessive killings beyond its actual needs.

In reality, the wolverine is primarily a scavenger, rather than an adept predator.

In Sweden’s mountains, wolverines primarily rely on reindeer as their main food source, which sometimes leads to severe conflicts with the indigenous reindeer herders of the northern regions. During periods when the snow forms a crust that can support a wolverine but not the heavier reindeer, there is a possibility for a wolverine to bring down a reindeer. This particular behavior might have contributed to their negative reputation as wasteful killers.

Appearance and Size

Wolverines (Gulo gulo) are powerful and robust mammals that belong to the weasel family. They have a distinct appearance with thick, dark fur, sharp claws, and a bushy tail. Adult wolverines can weigh between 20 to 40 kilograms (44 to 88 pounds) and measure approximately 65 to 87 centimeters (26 to 34 inches) in length, excluding the tail.

Distribution and Habitat

Wolverines are found in various parts of the world, including Sweden. In Sweden, they have primarily inhabited the northern regions, particularly in the mountainous areas of Lapland. Although in recent years the population has spread South into the Central parts of the country.

Diet and Feeding Habits

Wolverines are opportunistic feeders and have a diverse diet. They are known for their ability to scavenge, hunt, and even cache food for future consumption. Their diet consists of small to medium-sized mammals such as rodents and hares. Wolverines are also capable of taking down larger prey when necessary, including reindeer.

Reproduction and Life Cycle

Wolverines have a fascinating reproductive behavior. Mating typically occurs during the winter months, with females giving birth to a litter of two to three kits after a gestation period of approximately nine months. The kits remain dependent on their mother for around one year before venturing out on their own.

Facts about Wolverines in Sweden

• Scientific name: Gulo gulo

• Size: The size of wolverines in Sweden can vary significantly. Females typically weigh around 10-20 kg, while males range from 15-30 kg. The largest wolverines can reach weights of up to 35 kg. They can grow to be 65-105 cm long with a shoulder height of up to 45 cm.

• Appearance: Wolverines are medium-sized animals with a stocky build, short legs, and a muscular body. They have a thick, dark brown fur with lighter markings on their face and throat. Their paws are broad and adapted for traveling through snow, and they have a short, bushy tail.

• Family: Wolverines belong to the family Mustelidae, which includes other carnivorous mammals such as otters, badgers, and weasels.

• Distribution: Wolverines are found in Europe, North America, and Asia. In Sweden, they are primarily found in the northern and central parts of the country, where they inhabit remote and rugged wilderness areas.

• Reproduction: Wolverines give birth to their cubs, known as kits, during the winter months, typically between February and March. A female wolverine usually gives birth to 2-3 kits. The newborn kits are tiny, weighing only about 100 grams and are completely dependent on their mother for care and protection.

• Diet: Wolverines are opportunistic feeders with a diverse diet. They are scavengers and predators, consuming a variety of food sources, including small mammals, birds, carrion, berries, and carrion. Wolverines are known for their ability to take down prey much larger than themselves.