Wyoming Ecological Services
Mountain-Prairie Region

Federally Listed, Proposed & Candidate Species | Species of Concern | Migratory Birds | All Species By County

 

 

Federally Listed, Proposed and Candidate Species

 

North American Wolverine
(Gulo gulo luscus)

Staus: Proposed

WolverinePhoto Credit: NPS
Wolverine Section 7 Range

Section 7 Range Symbol

Wyoming Section 7 Range
North American Wolverine

 

Potential Distribution in Wyoming

Counties where North American Wolverine is known or believed to occur.

Fremont County | Hot Springs County | Lincoln County | Park County | Sublette County | Teton County

Section 7 Range

If an action is proposed within the Section 7 Range, potnetial effects to the species and habitat should be considered. Project proponets are encouraged to contact the FWS Wyoming Ecological Servcies Office.

Download Section 7 Range GIS Data or Section 7 Range Google Earth layers

 

Species Information

The North American wolverine (Gulo gulo luscus) in the contiguous United States was determined to be a distinct population segment (DPS).  This DPS is a candidate for listing under the Act (75 FR 78030; December 14, 2010).  The North American wolverine (Gulo gulo luscus) is a member of the Mustelidae (weasel) family and resembles a small bear with a bushy tail.  It has a broad, rounded head; short, rounded ears; and small eyes.  Each foot has five toes with curved, semi-retractile claws used for digging and climbing.  Female wolverines use birthing dens that are excavated in snow.  Persistent, stable snow greater than 5 feet deep appears to be a requirement for natal denning as it provides security for offspring and buffers cold winter temperatures.  Wolverines occur within a wide variety of alpine, boreal, and arctic habitats, including boreal forests, tundra, and western mountains.  Wolverines are opportunistic feeders and consume a variety of foods depending on availability.  They primarily scavenge carrion, but also consume small animals and birds, fruits, berries, and insects.  Potential threats to the wolverine include climate change, dispersed recreation, transportation corridors, and land management activities.

Last updated: April 10, 2013