Wildlife Tracking for Beginners: What to Look For

Imagine walking through a forest, feeling the cool breeze on your skin, and suddenly noticing subtle signs that an animal has recently passed by. Wildlife tracking is like uncovering a hidden world where every footprint, broken twig, and disturbed patch of earth tells a story. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a hiker, or just someone curious about the animals that share our planet, learning the basics of wildlife tracking can open your eyes to the incredible lives unfolding in the wilderness around you.

If you’ve ever wanted to become more attuned to the natural world, wildlife tracking is a great place to start. It’s an ancient skill that connects us to nature and deepens our understanding of the animals that inhabit it. Let’s explore some essential tips and what to look for as you begin your journey into wildlife tracking.

1. Start with the Basics: Know Your Tracks

One of the most exciting aspects of wildlife tracking is identifying animal tracks. Tracks are often the most visible and reliable clues that an animal has been in the area. Each species has its own unique footprint, which can tell you a lot about the creature that left it behind.

Here are some key points to remember when identifying tracks:

• Size and Shape: Look closely at the size and shape of the track. Is it round, oval, or rectangular? How many toes does it have? Does it have claws? For example, a dog’s track will show claws and have four toes, while a deer’s track will be more heart-shaped with two clear hoof prints.
• Gait and Stride: The way an animal moves leaves distinctive patterns in the tracks. A rabbit might leave a zig-zag pattern, while a fox will leave a straight line of single tracks as it trots.
• Depth of Imprint: The depth of the track can tell you about the animal’s size and the conditions of the ground. A deeper imprint might indicate a heavier animal or softer ground, such as after rain.
• Look for Patterns: Once you’ve identified the track, try to follow it. Understanding the animal’s behavior—whether it’s moving in a straight line, circling an area, or leading to water—can give you insights into its habits and needs.

2. Observe Signs of Feeding

Animals often leave behind clues about their feeding habits. These signs can be as telling as tracks, offering a glimpse into the diet and behavior of wildlife.

• Chewed Plants: Look for leaves, twigs, or bark that have been chewed or nibbled. Different animals leave distinct marks. For example, deer tend to tear plants with a jagged edge, while rabbits make clean, angled cuts.
• Nuts and Seeds: If you find nutshells or seeds on the ground, examine how they’ve been opened. Squirrels and rodents typically leave behind shells with neat, gnawed edges, whereas birds might leave cracked or pecked-open shells.
• Scat (Animal Droppings): Scat is another vital clue in wildlife tracking. The size, shape, and content of scat can help you identify the animal and even what it’s been eating. Herbivores like deer leave behind pellet-like scat, while carnivores like coyotes produce tubular scat often containing fur or bones.

3. Look for Signs of Animal Activity

Beyond tracks and feeding signs, animals leave other subtle clues that indicate their presence:

• Broken Branches and Flattened Grass: Larger animals, like deer or bears, may leave broken branches or flattened grass as they move through the area. These signs can also indicate pathways or trails that animals frequently use.
• Scratches and Rubs: Some animals, like deer or elk, rub their antlers against trees, leaving behind smooth, stripped bark. Bears and bobcats might scratch trees, leaving vertical marks that can be a sign of territory marking or sharpening claws.
• Burrows and Nests: Keep an eye out for burrows in the ground or nests in trees and bushes. These are often signs of small mammals, birds, or even reptiles. The size and location of the burrow can help you identify its creator.

4. Listen and Smell: Use All Your Senses

Wildlife tracking isn’t just about what you see—it’s also about what you hear and smell. Animals often make sounds that can lead you to their location, and certain scents can indicate their presence.

• Bird Calls and Animal Sounds: Pay attention to the sounds around you. Bird calls, rustling leaves, or distant howls can all signal nearby wildlife. Learning to identify different bird calls and animal sounds can significantly enhance your tracking skills.

• Scents: Some animals, like skunks, leave very distinct smells, but others might be subtler. You might notice the scent of musky urine, which could indicate the presence of a predator marking its territory.

5. Be Patient and Observant

The key to successful wildlife tracking is patience and keen observation. Animals are often elusive and cautious, so you might need to spend time quietly observing your surroundings. Move slowly and try to minimize noise. The more time you spend in nature, the more attuned you’ll become to the signs of wildlife around you.

6. Keep a Wildlife Journal

As you start your tracking journey, consider keeping a wildlife journal. Document the tracks, signs, and behaviors you observe, along with the date, time, and weather conditions. Over time, this journal will become a valuable resource that helps you track patterns, identify species more quickly, and deepen your connection with the natural world.

Closing Thoughts

Wildlife tracking is a skill that connects us to the earth and the creatures we share it with. It’s a practice that hones our senses and enriches our understanding of the natural world. Whether you’re in your local park, the woods, or a more remote wilderness area, these tips will help you begin your journey into wildlife tracking. So grab your boots, step outside, and start uncovering the stories that the animals around you are leaving behind. Happy tracking!