Vera Durham, age 9, of Haggerstown, Md., for her question:

IS THE WOLVERINE A LARGE ANIMAL?

Wolverine is a fur bearing animal that is related to badgers, skunks and otters. It is a medium sized animal that is about 2 1/2 feet long. It looks a bit like a bear.

The wolverine is rare in North America today because it has been hunted ruthlessly. It can also be found living in the wilds in the northern forest of Europe and Asia.

The wolverine is one of the most powerful animals for its size in the world. It has a heavy build and short legs. Its shaggy fur is dark with tan markings.

Wild wolverines in America used to steal bait from hunters' traps, and often destroyed more animals than they could eat. They are fierce animals. Europeans call them the glutton because of their huge appetites.