Wolverines now considered threatened species under Endangered Species Act

The North American wolverine has been listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service said Wednesday. Officials said climate change has threatened the species. Less than 300 wolverines are estimated to live in the contiguous U.S., according to the National Wildlife Federation. 

The designation will give the species protection, requiring federal agencies to ensure their actions are unlikely to jeopardize wolverines, according to the agency. The Endangered Species Act, enacted in 1973, establishes protections for fish, wildlife and plants that are listed as threatened or endangered.

"Current and increasing impacts of climate change and associated habitat degradation and fragmentation are imperiling the North American wolverine," Fish and Wildlife Pacific Regional Director Hugh Morrison said. "Based on the best available science, this listing determination will help to stem the long-term impact and enhance the viability of wolverines in the contiguous United States."