Wolverine spotted outside the normal range for the first time in years
A rare wolverine sighting occurred Monday on the Columbia River near Portland, Oregon, and photos show the animal crawling along the shore.
Two people fishing noticed the animal, known as the largest member of the weasel family and an endangered species in the state, NPR reported Friday.
According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), this was the first confirmed report of a wolverine outside of the Wallowa Mountains in more than 30 years.
A picture show the animal looking towards the person behind the camera, while another captured the moment as it rolled down the bank:
Wolverine spotted along the Columbia River near Portland – https://t.co/Zak6ohtBPO
📸 Provided by @Cascadia_Wild pic.twitter.com/8lCBIAAqAm
— Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (@MyODFW) March 22, 2023
“Given the proximity to Portland, we were very surprised when this report came in and thrilled when we were able to verify the sighting,” said ODFW District Wildlife Biologist Dave Keiter, adding his gratitude to those who reported the sighting.
The department’s press release continues:
ODFW and Cascadia Wild deployed two non-invasive monitoring stations (each consisting of a motion detection camera and a hair-collecting device baited with a strong-smelling attractant) in the nearby area. The cameras, which have cellular capability, will allow ODFW to verify if the wolverine is still present in the area. If the wolverine deposits hair on the hair collection device and a DNA sample is obtained, it may be possible to identify the individual if it was collected elsewhere and determine where it came from to population genetics. Cascadia Wild volunteers searched for additional trails and signs[s] nearby and collected two unidentified droppings, which can be genetically tested for individual identification.
In a social media post on Thursday, the ODFW share video footage of what appeared to be the same animal.
“A second sighting of the wolverine was reported in Damascus, Oregon on Wednesday, following an initial sighting Monday along the Columbia River,” the department said:
Hey, is it a wolverine…again? The bushy tail, blackish-brown coat, and pale brown stripe down the side definitely look like wolverines! A second sighting of the wolverine was reported in Damascus, Oregon on Wednesday, following an initial sighting along the Columbia River on Monday. pic.twitter.com/mpGjVKsxL5
— Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (@MyODFW) March 23, 2023
According to KGW News, wolverines are most commonly found in Canada and Alaska.
Keiter told the outlet that the animals can travel great distances, “particularly when dispersing, that is, leaving their natal area to potentially establish new territory and find a mate elsewhere. “.
Breitbart News
