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
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Shari Kelley (geology)
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 Drawn based upon US Geological Society image  Photo: J. Erxleben  Photo: Kim A. Cabrera |  Grouse and Quail(Dendragapus spp., Callipepla spp.)Family: Phasianidae, Odeontophori (Grouse, Quail, and Allies) Gait: walk Form: small claws; long toes Foot: 4 toes; 1.4 in (3.6 cm) - 2.0 in (5.1 cm) The toe pointing backward is relatively short and may not register. The toes are wide and the claws can appear as attached. Grouse tracks are more distinctive than quail, appearing bumpier due to a fringe of scales. Scat consists of light to dark brown pellets, often with a white nitrogenous covering. Bird Guide - Grouse and Quail |