"Picture a weasel -- and most of us can do that, for we have met that little demon of destruction, that small atom of insensate courage, that symbol of slaughter, sleeplessness, and tireless, incredible activity -- picture that scrap of demoniac fury, multiply that mite some fifty times, and you have the likeness of a Wolverine." Ernest Thompson Seton, 1909

The wolverine (Gulo gulo) earned its place in North American folklore long before north-country trappers and a few over-zealous naturalists began to spin tales of a beast of great ferocity, cunning, and extraordinary strength. Indian mythology describes the wolverine as a trickster-hero, and a link to the spirit world. Still, even today the wolverine remains largely a mystery. The Wolverine Foundation, Inc. was formed in 1996 to promote interest in the wolverine's status and ecological role in the world wildlife community. It is a non-profit foundation comprised of leading wildlife scientists knowledgeable in the life history, ecology, and management of one of the least understood and most fascinating creatures on earth. The Wolverine Foundation, Inc. recognizes the need for a coordinated science-based effort to elevate the wolverine's management status through support and initiation of research, and to develop an information network for professional and public education. Our site provides wolverine life history sections for the professional through elementary level students. It provides links to current research, a comprehensive literature bibliography ... and much more. Just follow the links on the left side of this page and please be sure to visit "The Wolverine in Art" selection. FEATURED PROJECTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS Final Capture for Ontario Boreal Wolverine Project Click image above for details

Recent Documented Wolverine Sighting in Michigan On February 24, 2004, near the small town of Ubly, Michigan in Huron County, a wolverine was observed and photographed. This is a rare and historic documentation of the presence of a wolverine in Michigan. There is evidence suggesting the recent increase of wolverine numbers in Ontario, Canada, with limited sightings occurring in the central and southern portion of the Province. (See: Ontario Boreal Wolverine Project Updates) However, there is little evidence to support the presence of a free ranging wolverine population in Michigan. Whether this Michigan animal represents a possible disperser from Ontario, or an escaped captive individual, is unknown. The wolverine is a low density carnivore which inhabits arctic and subarctic regions and its encounters with humans are uncommon. The absence of wolverines from historical ranges may be related to human activity as much as from reductions in habitat. As transient wolverines (usually young dispersing individuals) attempt to colonize or travel through areas of human habitation, their probability of survival is significantly compromised. We would encourage everyone to recognize the vulnerability of a potentially displaced individual.

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