A Method for Determining the Age of Wolverines ( Gulo Gulo )

The age structure of a group of wolverines (77 carcasses) for the years 2006–2016 are studied using three methods: on the basis of the number of annual layers of tooth cement, the overgrowth index of the cranial seams, and the canine canal index, all applied to this species for the first time. In juveniles, the overgrowth index was 60% or more, versus 44% or less in animals older than a year. Only an approximate estimate of the age of individuals within these groups appears to be possible. Age-related changes in the cranial seams are described, which makes it possible to separate young specimens from all other group types. The results obtained are of interest for practice in zoological research and hunting.