Wolverine (Gulo gulo)

Seeing the superhero Wolverine on the screen or in a comic book is as easy as flipping on the TV or picking up a book. Spotting one of the Kootenay’s most legendary residents might not be so easy.

The largest member of the weasel family, the real-life wolverine (Gulo gulo) remains hidden in the most rugged mountainscapes and mature forests in high elevations. Females retreat to remote high-elevation dens to give birth, and have been shown to abandon their dens due to human disturbance.

Known by many names (carcajou, skunk bear, Indian devil and ommeethatsees), the wolverine has been the inspiration for many areas and parks. These include the Wolverine Mountains near Prince George, Wolverine Peaks in Jasper National Park, and Wolverine Pass in Kootenay National Park. As well, the West Arm area near Nelson was once known as the “Land of the Wolverine” by the Ktunaxa First Nations.

The vicious wolverine is well known for its ferocious temper and violent nature. It’s always on the move, looking for food, following its nose into every nook and cranny. But rather than fruits, veggies or fresh meat, the wolverine loves carrion - the decaying flesh of dead animals. Its favourites include avalanche-killed goats, wolf-killed elk, and coyote-killed deer.

You might call it a scavenger, but just don’t say so to its face!