Abstract
"The wolverine was once thought to be extinct in Idaho, but reports of its occurrence persist. In order to better determine the status and distribution of this rare species, questionnaires were sent to biologists and trappers statewide in 1985. Responses to the questionnaires resulted in 10 confirmed and 89 probable reports of wolverines in Idaho between 1960 and 1987. At least three areas in the state (Selkirk Mountains, Lochsa and Kelly Creek drainages, Sawtooth and Smoky Mountains) appear to contain wolverine populations. These areas can be characterized as remote, mountainous habitat with little human disturbance. The present-day distribution of the wolverine in Idaho is probably in mountainous portions of the state from the South Fork of the Boise River north to the Canadian border. Although this survey has provided insights into the current distribution of the wolverine in Idaho, detailed analysis on population status and ecology are needed.

Notable excerpts
- Nice map showing geographic distribution of the sightings (183)

- The sightings were concentrated in at least three areas in Idaho: the Selkirk Mountains in northern Idaho, the Lochsa and Kelly Creek drainages in north-central Idaho, and the Sawtooth and Smoky Mountains in south-central Idaho (181).

- "Although results of this survey can offer no insights to the viability of wolverine populations in Idaho, it does appear that wolverines are occupying large, mountainous, essentially roadless areas in Idaho. In the Montana study, wolverines used both wilderness and non-wilderness areas, although the latter were used primarily in winter when human activity was minimal. Such may also be the case in Idhao because many of our reports occurred during winter." (184)

- Groves states that wolverines may be increasing in Idaho, "because more than half of the wolverine reports compiled during this survey occurred between 1980 and 1987" but qualifies this by saying, "such a conclusion may be misleading" (p. 184). As explanation, Groves refers to a Washington State study* where observer effort and access to wolverine habitat has increased over time, and notes that no surveys have ever been done before in Idaho.

 

* Johnson, R.E. 1977. A historical analysis of wolverine abundance and distribution in Washington. Murrelet 58:13-16.

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