Male wolverines share their territory with several females and are thought to be polygamous. They are believed to be extinct in the Southern Rockies. Photo © NPS
Ferocious But Vulnerable
Historically, wolverines ranged south from Canada and Alaska, through the mountainous regions of the West to southern California, Utah, Colorado, and into the Midwest. Today, healthy populations of wolverines inhabit remote, high-elevation areas of Montana and Idaho. Scientists have been unable to locate populations in other likely locations, such as the rugged mountains of southwest Colorado, and wolverines are believed to be extinct in the Southern Rockies.
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Natural History
Despite their appearance, wolverines are not related to bears but are actually the largest member of the weasel family. Wolverines are opportunistic feeders – they will kill full-grown game species and small mammals, scavenge on almost any available carcass, and browse for berries and other plant material. Wolverines are known for their ferocity and have been known to chase wolves, mountain lions, and bears away from fresh kills. The critical component of modern day wolverine habitat is the absence of human activity and development – wolverines are highly wary of crossing large openings, such as recent clear cuts, roads, or burns. Wolverines in an area could be used to signify it as a true remote wilderness.
Conservation Status
-Extirpated (locally extinct) in the Southern Rockies
-Forest Service Sensitive Species
-Colorado Division of Wildlife Endangered Species
Read More
US Fish & Wildlife Service Preliminary Finding on Wolverine
