Hugh Jackman can take a seat, this is the original. A few weeks ago, the film “Deadpool & Wolverine”, an American superhero film based on the characters from the Marvel comics, was released in cinemas, including here in Israel. The latter character introduces us to a mammal that lives mainly in the northern regions of the earth – the wolverine (Gulo gulo).
This remarkable creature is one of the largest members of the mustelid family and is found in the northern parts of North America and northern Eurasia. The wolverine is robust and powerfully built, with incredibly strong jaws for its size, which allow it to crack the bones of its prey. Despite its seemingly cumbersome build, this medium-sized mammal, which weighs around 20 kilograms, can reach impressive speeds and cover considerable distances.
“The wolverine is an omnivore that feeds mainly on carcasses or injured animals that cannot defend themselves, such as deer,” explains Professor Shai Meiri of the School of Zoology and the Steinhardt Museum of Natural History at Tel Aviv University. “Although it does not seem particularly threatening at first glance, it is a very strong animal that poses no danger to humans.” Meiri has previously measured several predator skulls, including that of the wolverine, and found out how powerful, large and strong its jaws are. “This animal cannot afford to be picky. Over the years it has gained a reputation for feeding on creatures much larger than itself.”
The fictional character Wolverine shares the same characteristics as his namesake, such as strength, determination, anger and ferocity. “Both the fictional character and the animal have long and strong claws, which may be the most important physical connection between them. However, it is important to note that while the wolverine has its reputation as an omnivore, it attacks its prey with its mouth, not its claws,” explained Meiri.
Unlike the superhero Wolverine, who has self-healing powers that allow him to quickly recover from various injuries, the wolverine does not possess this ability. However, it shows great courage and often causes significant damage in inhabited areas where it is common. At a time when global warming is increasing year by year, there is great concern that climate change will shrink the wolverine’s habitat and put it on the brink of extinction.
