Wolverines are largely solitary but have complex social relationships. Understanding their social needs in captive settings improves zoo welfare management.
Wolverine welfare in captivity requires understanding their complex solitary-but-networked social nature. While not tolerant of same-sex adults sharing space, wolverines have social relationships and seasonal associations that are entirely absent in typical zoo settings. The result is high stereotypic behavior rates indicating chronic behavioral frustration. Progressive wolverine facilities provide large, complex enclosures with significant height, underground chambers, and seasonal complexity including artificial snowpack. Compatible breeding pairs can be housed together with careful management. The welfare case for keeping wolverines in captivity at all is questionable given the difficulty of meeting their needs.