Wolverine population assessment in Glacier National Park, Montana: Progress report : Spring 2003
Copeland J, Yates R, Ruggiero L. 2003. Wolverine population assessment in Glacier National Park, Montana: Progress report : Spring 2003. USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station. Missoula, MT
Field work began in summer 2002 with selection of wolverine trap sites and trap building at 7 locations on the eastern front of Glacier National Park. Study area and trap locations were selected by reviewing historical park sighting and track information. Prebaiting of traps began on 17 December 2002 and trapping commenced on 22 January 2003, with 4 traps set in the Many Glacier valley. The first wolverine capture occurred on 26 January. A total of 6 wolverine (3 male and 3 female) were captured between 26 January and 8 April, all in the Many Glacier Valley. Traps at Lee Creek and Two Medicine were not set and a single trap at Cut Bank Creek did not capture a wolverine. All captured wolverine were instrumented with intraperitoneal VHF transmitters. ARGOS/GPS satellite collars were also fitted on 4 individuals, but only functioned for several weeks. One individual removed its collar. Morphometric data, blood, and tissue samples were also collected. Male weights averaged 12.87 kg (n=3) and females 8.97 kg (n=3). Study animals were relocated by ground triangulation and via aerial monitoring. Two adult females were found pregnant at their initial capture but only one of these produced kits.
- Type
- Published Report
- Authors
- Copeland, Jeff; Yates, Rick; Ruggiero, Len
- Date of Issue
- 2003-06-16
- Publisher
- USDA Forest Service, Rocky Mountain Research Station
- Units
- GLAC
- Keywords
- forest carnivore, Gulo gulo, Mammal, Population assessment, Wolverine