Wolverine
Defenders in Action: Advocating for Federal Protections
For more than a decade, Defenders of Wildlife has been pushing the federal government to protect wolverines under the Endangered Species Act.
The Problem
As a result of historic fur trapping as well as ongoing habitat loss and fragmentation, there are fewer than 300 wolverines remaining in the lower 48 states. They need the attention and resources provided by the Endangered Species Act to fully recover and ensure a lasting future.
How We’re Helping
Defenders took legal action against the federal government in both 2005 and 2008 to win ESA protections for wolverines. At the end of 2010, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service determined that protections were needed, and a final listing decision is expected by 2013.
Where We Are Today
Wolverines still do not have the protections they need. Until they do, Defenders will be there fighting for a recovery plan and decisive action that will secure the long-term future of the species.
More on Wolverine: Success Stories »
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Conservation Issue
Climate change is now one of the leading threats to wildlife. Find out what Defenders is doing to help animals around the country survive in a warming planet.
Fact Sheet
Called "skunk bear" by the Blackfeet Indians, the wolverine is the largest terrestrial member of the weasel family. It has a broad head, small eyes and short rounded ears.
In the Magazine
Wolverines have strength, hardiness, powerful jaws and sharp claws on their side, but Gulo gulo still may not be resilient enough to survive climate change in the American West.
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February 25, 2013 | 1.08 PM
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