-----Original Message-----
From: Department of Natural Resources publications list [mailto:DNRWIRE@LISTSERV.MICHIGAN.GOV] On Behalf Of Mary Dettloff
Sent: Tuesday, April 06, 2010 9:13 AM
To: DNRWIRE@LISTSERV.MICHIGAN.GOV
Subject: Michigan's Only Known Wolverine Died of Natural Causes
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 6, 2010
Contacts: Tom Cooley 517-336-3050 or Mary Dettloff 517-335-3014
Michigan’s Only Known Wolverine Died of Natural Causes
Michigan’s only known wolverine apparently died of natural causes,
the Department of Natural Resources and Environment announced today.
A necropsy performed at the DNRE’s Wildlife Diagnostic Laboratory and
microscopic examinations at Michigan State University showed some heart
degeneration and some liver congestion, but no sign of infection or
trauma. The wolverine was in fair body condition with small deposits of
fat. Metal and pesticide screenings were negative.
The female wolverine, first discovered by coyote hunters near Bad Axe
in the Thumb on Feb. 24, 2004, was approximately 9 years old, said DNRE
pathologist Tom Cooley. Previous DNA analysis indicated the animal’s
genetic origin was from a vast area of Ontario and Manitoba.
The dead wolverine, was found semi-submerged on the downstream side of
a beaver dam by hikers Morgan Graham and Todd Rann in the Minden City
State Game Area in mid March. The animal was last known to be alive on
Feb. 17, 2010.
The carcass was taken to a taxidermist by DNRE personnel. It will be
made into a full-body mount to be displayed at the Saginaw Bay Visitor
Center at Bay City State Recreational Area.
The animal was first wolverine ever authenticated in Michigan.
The DNRE is committed to the conservation, protection, management and
accessible use of the state’s environment, natural resources and
related economic interests for current and future generations.
