A University of Calgary study links road development and recreation in the Rocky and Columbia mountains to lower wolverine population density, warning that the pressures could push the animals towards the brink. Wolverines are seldom seen and are considered at risk in Alberta. The research examined 81,800 square kilometres in western Alberta and eastern British Columbia, where it estimated that only 300 wolverines live.

The study found particularly few wolverines in the Upper Columbia region of southeastern British Columbia. It suggested populations in the study area could be 30 per cent higher if current levels of roads and recreation were scaled back. The findings were published in the journal Biological Conservation.

“We wanted to figure out how the population is doing and what kind of impacts there are,” said lead author Mirjam Barrueto, PhD, in a news release. “We found there were very few wolverines in the Upper Columbia region in southeastern British Columbia.”

The research makes five recommendations to help increase wolverine numbers. They include retaining areas without roads or with low road density, protecting high-quality habitat with little disturbance, and limiting recreation in places known to be breeding grounds. The study linked rapid development in both mountain ranges directly to lower population density.

Government research says wolverines were widespread in Alberta before the turn of the century, but trapping and increased settlement reduced their range. “In general, the current range of wolverines in Alberta corresponds with areas that have relatively low levels of human development,” the data reads.

Parks Canada says wolverines are the largest members of the weasel family. They were once thought to feed exclusively on carrion, but are now understood to be “accomplished predators.” “They will kill caribou, an animal several times their size. In summer, marmots and small mammals are the usual prey. In winter, most of their diet consists of large mammals such as mountain goats, moose and caribou that were previously killed by wolves or avalanches,” officials said. Males average 18 kilograms, or 40 pounds, while females weigh up to 12 kilograms, or 26 pounds.

Based on reporting by CTV News Calgary.