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By SUSAN GALLAGHER Associated Press Writer HELENA, Mont. (AP) Ten groups say they will sue the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over its refusal to protect wolverines under the federal Endangered Species Act.

The groups have written the service's director and the nation's Interior secretary, giving 60 days notice of intent to sue.

The Fish and Wildlife Service said in March that wolverines did not warrant protection under the Endangered Species Act.

The coalition of 10 groups says that outside of Alaska, fewer than 500 wolverines remain in the United States. The groups include Defenders of Wildlife, the Greater Yellowstone Coalition and the Center for Biological Diversity.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 07-08-08 1057CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list