Up in Alberta, local trappers are helping with an ambitious research project aimed at learning more about wolverines and their habitat. The Alberta Trappers Association approached researchers with the hopes of learning more about the elusive furbearers that play an important role on the bush trapline.
Here’s an excerpt.
Jokinen has been involved with the wolverine project since it began about two years ago, when the Alberta Trappers’ Association approached the conservation association about studying wolverines.
“We wanted it to be trapperbased, to use our bush skills, our wildlife knowledge, and our ability to get into remote areas, good wolverine habitat,” said Bill Abercrombie, a board member with the Alberta Trappers’ Association.
The organizations developed a project that saw wolverines lured to platforms where remote trail cameras were set up, along with clips that could collect hair samples for DNA analysis.
“The knowledge the trappers have is incredible,” Jokinen said.
Last winter, about 25 trappers participated in the project.
Advancements in technology, including GPS tracking collars and trail cameras, have helped researchers in other parts of the world learn more about wolverines, and now it’s Alberta’s turn.
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