This guide initially displays common tracks of all shapes. Use the selectors below to view particular shapes, include rare species, or search by name.
Anything that moves over the ground leaves some sort of marking of its passage. In particular, footprints left behind in soil, snow, mud, or other ground surfaces provide a means of recognizing different species. The illustrations and characteristics listed below highlight key features that can be used to identify the tracks of many of the animals in the area.
Track References
Alderness Wilderness College
Animal Track ID [PDF]
Beartracker
Deerdance
Elbroch, Mark, 2003 Mammal Tracks and Signs: A Guide to North American Species
eNature
Gaits
Lowery, James, 2013 Tracker’s Field Guide. Falcon Guides
Nature Tracking
North Woods Guides
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Terry Foxx (invasive plants)
Leslie Hansen (mammals)
Richard Hansen (fish, mammals)
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Shari Kelley (geology)
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 Drawn based upon US Geological Service image  Photo: agirlnamednee  Photo: California Department of Fish and Wildlife |  Coyote(Canis latrans)Family: Canidae (Canines) Gait: gallop, lope, overstep walk, trot Form: small claws; round toes Front Foot: 5 toes; 1.8 in (4.6 cm) - 3.0 in (7.6 cm) Hind Foot: 4 toes; 1.7 in (4.3 cm) - 3.0 in (7.6 cm) The fifth toe on the front foot does not usually register. The negative space between the toes forms an "X" shape. Coyote scat contains a variety of different substances including meat and hair. The shape is generally tubular and usually twisted at least one end. Mammal Guide - Coyote |