|
April 6, 2010
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
|
