Wolverine distribution in the northwestern United States and a survey in the Seven Devils Mountains of Idaho

The distribution and connectivity of wolverine (Gulo gulo) populations in the northwestern United States is largely unknown. We investigated the potential distribution of wolverine in the Northwest and the importance of the Seven Devils Mountains for connecting populations in Idaho and Oregon. Mapping documented sightings suggested 3 relatively distinct subpopulations in the 1) Cascade Mountains of Washington, 2) Cascade Mountains of Oregon, and 3) Rocky Mountains of Idaho. Sightings across mountainous habitats of Oregon also suggest that the Seven Devils Mountains may provide the only suitable habitat linking wolverine subpopulations in Idaho and Oregon. We confirmed the first observation of a wolverine in the Seven Devils Mountains during a helicopter survey in March 1998. The lack of previous sightings suggested limited dispersal between Oregon and Idaho. Low dispersal may impact the regional viability of wolverine by lowering the likelihood that suitable habitat patches are inhabited over time. Maintaining and enhancing the integrity of movement corridors between the Seven Devils Mountains and other contiguous mountain habitats in Idaho and Oregon may be essential for ensuring regional wolverine persistenceEdelmann and Copeland "Wolverine distribution in the northwestern United States and a survey in the Seven Devils Mountains of Idaho." Northwest Science. 1999; 73(4): 295-30