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
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 Drawn based upon US Geological Survey image  Photo: J.N. Stuart  Photo: Kim A. Cabrera |  River Otter, North American River Otter(Lontra canadensis, Lutra canadensis)Family: Mustelidae (Weasels, Badgers, and Otters) Gait: lope, walk Form: small claws; long toes Front Foot: 5 toes; 2.0 in (5.1 cm) - 3.6 in (9.1 cm) Hind Foot: 5 toes; 2.1 in (5.3 cm) - 4.1 in (10.4 cm) The otter has large webbed feet. However, the webbing may be hard to see in a track. The little toe on the inside of the foot may not register while the interdigital and proximal pads often show. Scat is oily, pungent, and contains remains of fish. As it decomposes, there will usually be a pile of fish scales left. Loose dirt and slides near a river bank are other signs of otter activity. Mammal Guide - River Otter |