Wolverine Ecology
in the
Teton Range of Western Wyoming

Project Update: 1999-2000 Trapping Season

Trapping was conducted at 3 sites. Trapping began on 19 February, 2000 and continued to 27 April, 2000. Traps were operated a total of 189 trap nights. Wolverine presence at trap sites, including snow-tracks, and/or remote camera photos was detected 7 times during the prebaiting, trapping and post-trapping periods for a visit-rate of 1/27 trap nights. Wolverine were captured and escaped from traps on 3 occasions. No wolverine were captured and processed.

We collected 48 relocations for an average of 1 location/ 6 days, on all study animals in 2000. Total 99% minimum convex polygon home ranges were calculated for all 3 study animals. The home range of M399 overlapped those of both F468 and F379. Home range area was 780 kmē for M399, 622 kmē for F468, and 276 kmē for F379. Spatial data for F468 only included 2 relocations for the year 2000 as her transmitter battery failed in early February.

We attempted to determine the reproductive status of both females. The reproductive status of F468 was undetermined as she was not recaptured, and her transmitter failed too early to monitor for denning behavior. Movement behavior of F379 did not provide a strong indication of reproductive denning. Although she spent much of her time through the period of likely parturition (Feb-Mar) in the Death Canyon drainage, this was typical of her annual movement pattern. As she was not recaptured, we were unable to determine her reproductive status.

The Alta 4-H Exploring Natural Resources Club provided weekly presentations on wolverine ecology and project results to Grand Targhee Ski Resort guests and associated Elder Hostel groups.

If you would like to provide some generous help for this project, you can make a tax deductible contribution through The Wolverine Foundation, Inc. at the address listed below. Just let us know that you would like your contribution directed to the Teton Wolverine Project in your correspondence.