Which specialized feature of the wolverine's feet distributes weight effectively over deep powder snow?
Answer
They possess large paws relative to body size
Navigating deep snow is a constant requirement in the wolverine's primary habitat, and its feet are specially evolved for this challenge. They have proportionally large paws compared to the rest of their body mass. This enlargement serves the exact function of natural snowshoes, maximizing the surface area in contact with the snow. By spreading the animal’s weight over a larger area, this adaptation prevents the wolverine from sinking excessively into soft, deep powder, thus conserving vital energy required for hunting and long-distance travel.
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