Wolverine State Loses Only Known Wolverine
Hikers in Michigan Find Wild Wolverine, First Spotted in 2004, Dead; Next Previous Sightings Date Back to 1800s

AP) The Wolverine State has lost its only known wild wolverine.

State officials said Monday hikers found the 28-pound female over the weekend outside Minden, about 90 miles north of Detroit.

Department of Natural Resources and Environment spokeswoman Mary Dettloff says natural causes are suspected.

Hunters first spotted the wolverine in 2004. Teacher Jeff Ford tracked the animal for years and says it had distinctive markings "like a fingerprint." He says years of monitoring failed to document any other wolverines in the area.

Previously, the last known Michigan wolverine sightings were in the early 1800s. The animal's ferocious reputation led to its selection as a mascot for the state and the University of Michigan.

Most North American wolverines are found in Alaska and Canada.

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/03/16/tech/main6303277.shtml?tag=pop

This photo taken Saturday, March 13, 2010, provided by Steve Noble via the Detroit Free Press, shows Jeff Ford holding Michigan's only known wolverine after she was found dead by hikers. (AP Photo/Steve Noble)