Animal Tracking

Know ten kinds of tracks, including two kinds of bird tracks. Make plaster casts of five.

Name at least three things that tracks tell us.

Trail some animal tracks, identify the animal if possible, and tell whether it was running or walking. Measure between the tracks of one animal when running and walking.

Maintain a tracking station for at least three days by doing the following:

• a.

  Select a flat open space in some quiet place near your camp or home.

• b.

  Smooth out ground, mud, sand, etc.

• c.

  Do not place food for animals at the tracking station. Learn why feeding wild animals is illegal in many jurisdictions.

• d.

  Check each day for tracks and identify what animal made it. Cast, sketch or photograph at least one of the tracks.

Name two animals for each tracking group.p.

• a.

  Flatfoots

• b.

  Toe walkers

• c.

  Toenail walkers

• d.

  Bounders or long hindleggers

Name four signs of the presence of mammals.

Distinguish between rabbit and squirrel tracks, and between dog and cat family tracks.

Name two groups of animals (mammals, birds, insects, etc.) that leave tracks or scent trails that another of their kind can follow.

Name two birds for each of the following type of tracks:

• a.

  Hopping

• b.

  Walking

Besides tracks, give two other signs of the presence of birds.

Name two birds identified by their flying patterns.

In your area, observe tracks or trail of one or more of the following:

• a.

  Toad or frog

• b.

  Snake

• c.

  Turtle

• d.

  Mollusk

• e.

  Earthworm

• f.

  Mole

Have the Animal Tracking Honor.

What is the difference between positive and negative casts of animal tracks?

Make at least one positive cast from a negative cast or rubber mold.

What is scatology and why is it important in the study of animals?

Find at least one trace of an animal other than its tracks. Through careful observation and/or analysis determine as many conclusions as possible from the evidence.

With a partner set up a track and trail course covering at least one mile (1.6 km) which will include at least four change-of-directions utilizing traditional native signs and have at least two other persons successfully follow the route. Successfully follow a one mile (1.6 km) route set by someone else.