LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Michigan is “The Wolverine State” in more ways than one, and now the animal namesake has been listed as officially threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

Being listed as “threatened” on that list means there are restrictions against killing, capturing or “taking” North American wolverines. However, being listed as “threatened,” versus “endangered” means there are some exemptions.

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In the case of the wolverines, the government is proposing an interim rule saying they can be killed or captured for research activities, incidental trapping and forest management intended to combat wildfires.

The government moved to list the wolverine as threatened ten years ago, then delisted it before a court stepped in and told it to look again.

The North American wolverine runs to around 40 pounds or more and resembles a small bear. It is a large member of a weasel-related family.

For more information on the North American wolverine click here.