Wolverine  (Gulo gulo)

Wolverines have declined through much of their historic range; they are very sensitive to human disturbance and have retreated to remaining areas of wilderness (4). They continue to be threatened by habitat loss and also by a loss of prey species or even other carnivores (such as wolves) that provide carrion (4). Where they do exist near humans they can come into conflict with farmers from attacking livestock; persecution and poaching are therefore pertinent threats (4). In addition, populations that are protected are slow to recover due to slow reproduction rates caused by the small litter size and the fact that females only reproduce every few years (4).

WWF International launched a Large Carnivore Initiative for Europe (LCIE) in 1995 and under this initiative an Action Plan has been drawn up for the conservation of this species in Europe (6). The wolverine is protected in much of its range but more research into the population dynamics and behaviour of this elusive creature are desperately needed. In Europe especially, where there are fewer areas of true wilderness left, any conservation initiative will have to work closely with local people to combat prejudice (4). In the United States, the wolverine is yet to be listed on the Endangered Species Act due to the paucity of data surrounding this species, highlighting once again the need for further research (3).