Wolverines are cold-adapted, wide-ranging mustelids from boreal and subarctic habitats whose welfare in zoo settings requires particular attention to thermal management and enrichment.
Wolverine welfare is fundamentally compromised by small enclosures and warm climates. These animals evolved for the extreme cold and vast spaces of the boreal zone. Providing cold weather facilities, varied terrain including climbing and digging substrates, and complex food-finding challenges that replicate caching behaviour are essential welfare requirements. Only specialist facilities can truly meet wolverine welfare needs.