This happens periodically and is a normal part of USFWS duties under the ESA. Not much has changed in terms of research on wolverines or new information so I wouldn't get too worried just yet.

As far as trappers being a key tool in wolverine management, not really. The current trap design is a live trap made on site using modified radio collars. That is about the only proven option for trapping them live for immobilization and study etc.

Historical trapping data is of questionable value due to poor record keeping and the low density/large home range of wolverines.

What is of most value right now is live trapping to mark/recapture for population estimate, and using GPS collars to map habitat use and movement between populations.

As far as the population being healthy, well if they were sure, they wouldn't be doing this review. In a population structure like wolverines, one individual can impact the entire population, due mainly to huge homeranges, low birth rate, low density and large travel distances to find mates.

Wolverines taken by trappers arne't useful in research at this time. Only live animals for studies like I listed above.

As for federal status hampering things: right or wrong it would point the money hose at wolverine research enabling numerous projects to get done that are currently not funded...including mine.

No I'm not a bunny hugger.