Review of the Extinct Wolverine, <i>Plesiogulo</i> (Carnivora: Mustelidae), from North America

Abstract

There are two fossil species of <i>Plesiogulo</i> in North America: <i>Plesiogulo marshalli</i>, to which most of the fossil material is herein referred, and P. <i>lindsayi</i>, new species. Both species are restricted to the late Hemphillian. A formal diagnosis is offered for <i>P. marshalli</i>. Remains of <i>Plesiogulo</i> are relatively rare, possibly due to low densities in extinct populations. The only known juvenile specimens of <i>Plesiogulo</i> are from the Edson Local Fauna, where three juveniles together with a single mature individual probably represent a female with a litter of cubs. <i>Plesiogulo</i> migrated to the New World some time between 7.0 and 6.5 million years ago. This taxon, generally interpreted as an inhabitant of forest or woodland, was probably equally well adapted to the open plains.