Wolverine Vs Tasmanian Devil Who Would Win? An Ecological Comparison

Key Points

• Taxonomy: Wolverines belong to Carnivora/Mustelidae, while Tasmanian devils belong to Dasyuromorphia/Dasyuridae.

• Appearance: Wolverines are robust with dark brown fur; Tasmanian devils are compact with coarse black fur.

• Size and Weight: Wolverines are larger and heavier than Tasmanian devils.

• Bite Force: Both possess strong bites, adapted for different purposes.

• Habitat: Wolverines prefer cold regions; Tasmanian devils are native to Tasmania’s diverse habitats.

• Lifespan: Wolverines generally live longer than Tasmanian devils.

• Reproduction: Differences in mating systems, gestation periods, and parental care.

• Social Behavior: Wolverines are mostly solitary; Tasmanian devils exhibit group interactions during feeding.

• Conservation Status: Wolverines are “Least Concern,” Tasmanian devils are “Endangered” due to a facial tumor disease.

1). Taxonomy

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

• • • Kingdom: Animalia
    • Phylum: Chordata
    • Class: Mammalia
    • Order: Carnivora
    • Family: Mustelidae
    • Genus: Gulo
    • Species: Gulo gulo

• • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
    • Kingdom: Animalia
    • Phylum: Chordata
    • Class: Mammalia
    • Order: Dasyuromorphia
    • Family: Dasyuridae
    • Genus: Sarcophilus
    • Species: Sarcophilus harrisii

• Both the wolverine and Tasmanian devil belong to the class Mammalia, but they are placed in different orders and families, highlighting their distinct evolutionary paths.

2). Appearance

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

• • • Robust and stocky build
    • Thick, dark brown fur with lighter markings on the face and sides
    • Characterized by a broad head, small eyes, and rounded ears
    • Possesses strong, non-retractable claws
    • Has a distinctive light-colored throat patch

• • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
    • Compact and muscular body
    • Coarse, black fur with a white patch on the chest
    • Prominent facial markings, including a pinkish snout
    • Strong jaws with powerful bite
    • Ears are small and rounded

While both species exhibit a sturdy physique, the wolverine’s fur is darker and features different facial markings compared to the Tasmanian devil. The devil is recognized by its distinct black coloration and facial markings.

3). Size

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

3. • • Length: 26 to 42 inches (66 to 107 cm) excluding tail
     • Tail length: 7 to 10 inches (18 to 25 cm)
     • Shoulder height: 13 to 18 inches (33 to 46 cm)
   • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
     • Length: 20 to 31 inches (51 to 79 cm) excluding tail
     • Tail length: 9 to 12 inches (23 to 30 cm)
     • Shoulder height: 9 to 12 inches (23 to 30 cm)

4). Weight

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

3. • • Average weight: 22 to 55 pounds (10 to 25 kg)
   • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
     • Average weight: 13 to 26 pounds (6 to 12 kg)

5). Bite Force

• • Wolverine (Gulo gulo):
    • Strong bite force used for crushing bones and tearing meat
    • Exact measurement varies, but wolverines have powerful jaws

• • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
    • Exceptionally strong bite force relative to body size
    • Capable of consuming entire prey, including bones and fur

In terms of size, wolverines generally have a larger body size compared to Tasmanian devils. Wolverines also possess a formidable bite force, while Tasmanian devils are known for their exceptionally strong jaws, allowing them to consume a wide range of prey.

6). Physical Offensive Advantages

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

6. • • Sharp, non-retractable claws for digging and climbing
     • Strong bite force aids in hunting and scavenging
     • Agile and persistent pursuit of prey

6. • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
     • Powerful jaw muscles and strong bite for effective predation
     • Quick and aggressive feeding behavior
     • Ability to consume the entire carcass, bones included

7). Physical Defensive Advantages

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

6. • • Tough and durable fur provides insulation
     • Agility and climbing ability for escaping predators
     • Intimidating demeanor when threatened
   • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
     • Ability to emit strong odor as a defensive mechanism
     • Tenacity and aggressiveness when confronted
     • Can retract into a defensive posture when threatened

8). Speed

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

• • • Moderate running speed
    • Adapted for endurance rather than short bursts of speed

• • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
    • Relatively slow runner
    • Agile movements but not known for high-speed pursuits

Both species exhibit physical traits that contribute to their offensive and defensive capabilities. Wolverines rely on agility, strong jaws, and claws, while Tasmanian devils are known for their powerful bite and tenacious feeding behavior. In terms of speed, neither is known for exceptional running abilities.

9). Agility

9. • Wolverine (Gulo gulo):
     • Agile and able climbers, navigating various terrains
     • Well-adapted for moving through snow and rocky landscapes

9. • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
     • Relatively agile movements, especially during feeding
     • Well-adapted for maneuvering in dense vegetation

10). Overall Physical Capacity

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

9. • • Robust and durable physique
     • Endurance and stamina for long-distance travel
     • Versatile adaptations for different environments

9. • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
     • Muscular build suited for scavenging and hunting
     • Tenacious feeding behavior enhances overall capacity
     • Adaptations for surviving in the Tasmanian ecosystem

11). Habitat Preference(s)

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

• • • Northern regions, including boreal forests and tundra
    • Alpine and arctic environments with cold temperatures

• • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
    • Primarily found in the island state of Tasmania
    • Diverse habitats ranging from forests to open areas

Wolverines showcase agility in climbing and traversing challenging terrains, while Tasmanian devils exhibit agility during feeding. Wolverines have a broad overall physical capacity, adapting to various environments, especially those with cold temperatures. Tasmanian devils are adapted to diverse habitats in the island state of Tasmania.

12). Lifespan

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

12. • • Typically 7 to 12 years in the wild
      • Can live longer in captivity

12. • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
      • Usually up to 5 to 8 years in the wild
      • Limited by factors such as disease and predation

13). Mode of Feeding

12. • Wolverine (Gulo gulo):
      • Carnivorous diet, including scavenging
      • Consumes a variety of prey, from small mammals to carrion

12. • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
      • Carnivorous scavenger
      • Known for consuming entire carcasses, including bones and fur

14). Social Behavior

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

• • • Mostly solitary and territorial
    • May travel long distances in search of food

• • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
    • Generally solitary, but can be seen in small groups during feeding
    • Known for aggressive interactions, especially during feeding

Wolverines have a longer lifespan compared to Tasmanian devils. Both species are carnivorous scavengers, with wolverines having a broader diet. Wolverines are mostly solitary and territorial, whereas Tasmanian devils may exhibit social behavior during feeding but are generally solitary.

15). Mode of Reproduction

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

15. • • Polygamous mating system
      • Mating typically occurs in the summer
      • Delayed implantation; gestation lasts about 30 days

15. • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
      • Polygamous mating system is prevalent
      • Mating usually takes place in March
      • Short gestation period of about 21 days

16). Parental Behavior

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

15. • • Female wolverines are protective of their young
      • Kits stay with the mother for an extended period, learning survival skills

15. • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
      • Female devils give birth to relatively undeveloped young
      • Mother provides protection and nourishment in a backward-facing pouch

17). Proximity to Human-Inhabited Areas

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

• • • Generally avoids human settlements
    • May come into contact with humans in remote areas

• • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
    • Presence in natural habitats on the island of Tasmania
    • Interactions with humans occur, especially in areas with human development

Both wolverines and Tasmanian devils exhibit polygamous mating systems, but their reproductive and parental behaviors differ. Wolverines have a longer gestation period and provide extended parental care, while Tasmanian devils have a shorter gestation period and rely on a pouch for protection. Additionally, both species may encounter humans in their respective habitats, with wolverines generally avoiding human settlements.

18). Behavior Toward Humans

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

18. • • Typically shy and elusive around humans
      • Avoids direct confrontation but can be aggressive if threatened
      • Known to follow traplines, leading to occasional interactions with trappers
19. • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
      • Generally shy and will flee from humans
      • May exhibit aggression if feeling threatened or cornered
      • Interactions with humans may occur during feeding on roadkill

19). Danger Posed to Humans

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

18. • • Rarely poses a direct threat to humans
      • May act defensively if cornered or surprised
19. • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
      • Generally not considered dangerous to humans
      • Aggressive behavior more directed towards conspecifics during feeding

20). Associated Precautions

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

• • • Avoiding close encounters is advisable
    • Understanding their behavior helps prevent unintentional conflicts

• • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
    • Caution advised, especially during feeding
    • Observing from a distance recommended to avoid potential aggression

While both species are generally not considered highly dangerous to humans, precautions should be taken to avoid unintentional conflicts. Understanding their behavior and maintaining a respectful distance is essential, especially during interactions in their natural habitats.

21). Conservation Status

Wolverine (Gulo gulo):

• • • Varies regionally; some populations are stable, while others face threats
    • Listed as “Least Concern” globally, but some local populations are at risk
    • Concerns include habitat loss and climate change impacting their arctic and alpine environments

• • Tasmanian Devil (Sarcophilus harrisii):
    • Listed as “Endangered” due to a facial tumor disease affecting wild populations
    • Conservation efforts include captive breeding programs and disease management
    • The disease, known as Devil Facial Tumor Disease (DFTD), poses a significant threat to their survival

In terms of conservation status, wolverines are generally classified as “Least Concern,” but local populations may face threats. Tasmanian devils, on the other hand, are listed as “Endangered” due to the severe impact of a contagious facial tumor disease. Conservation efforts are crucial for the survival of both species, with a focus on addressing specific threats to their populations

Conclusion

I). Similarities:

• Both the wolverine (Gulo gulo) and Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) belong to the class Mammalia, showcasing their shared mammalian characteristics.
• Both species are carnivorous predators, relying on a diet that includes scavenging.

II). Differences:

• Taxonomy: Wolverines belong to the order Carnivora and family Mustelidae, while Tasmanian devils belong to the order Dasyuromorphia and family Dasyuridae, illustrating distinct evolutionary paths.

• Appearance: Wolverines have a robust build with dark brown fur, while Tasmanian devils are characterized by a compact body and coarse black fur with facial markings.

• Size and Weight: Wolverines are generally larger and heavier than Tasmanian devils.

• Bite Force: While both possess strong bite forces, the adaptations and purposes for their powerful bites differ.

• Habitat and Range: Wolverines are found in northern regions with cold climates, while Tasmanian devils are native to the island state of Tasmania with diverse habitats.

• Lifespan: Wolverines generally have a longer lifespan than Tasmanian devils.

• Reproductive Strategies: Differences exist in mating systems, gestation periods, and parental care.

• Conservation Status: Wolverines are classified as “Least Concern,” with localized threats, while Tasmanian devils are “Endangered” due to a contagious facial tumor disease.