A TEST OF AVERSIVE AGENTS ON WOLVERINES

Wolverine (Gulo gulo) predation on sheep (Ovis aces) on summer range i n mountain areas has been documented in Norway during the last 15 year s. Norweigan government policy is to sustain viable wolverine populati ons. However, the conflict created by wolverine predation on sheep and domestic reindeer results in strong local pressure for licenses to ki ll wolverines, and results as well in illegal killing. Illegal killing poses a threat to sustainable management of this protected species. B ecause sheep are present only in the alpine ecosystem during the short summer period, wolverine populations probably are not dependent on sh eep predation. The aim of our study was to find nonlethal taste and ol factory agents that have an aversive effect on wolverines. We showed t hat certain chemicals and oils are potential aversive agents for capti ve wolverines by adding small amounts of chemicals to die normal diet, and by observing their reaction both directly and through video analy sis. Five oils and 3 chemicals in combination Sate distinctive aversiv e reactions and were considered a good choice for tests in the field w ith wild wolverines. Development of dispensers is necessary for using the chemicals as long-lasting repellents on sheep. Volatile repellents attached to lambs are a potential method for decreasing wolverine pre dation on sheep.