From Novice to Tracker: Your Guide to Learning How to Identify Animal Tracks

Have you ever wandered through the wilderness and stumbled upon mysterious footprints, wondering which creature left them behind? Animal tracking is not just a skill—it’s a journey into the hidden lives of wildlife, offering a deeper connection with nature and an exciting way to enrich your outdoor experiences.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a budding naturalist, or simply curious about the trails crisscrossing your backyard, learning to identify animal tracks opens up a world of discovery. But with so many resources available, where do you begin?

That’s where we come in. This post is your gateway to the best resources for learning how to identify animal tracks. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of top-notch websites, insightful books, user-friendly mobile apps, engaging workshops, and vibrant online communities to help you embark on or continue your tracking journey.

So grab your adventure gear, and let’s explore the avenues that will transform you into a skilled tracker, capable of unraveling the stories written in the tracks beneath your feet.

Tracking Books and Field Guides

There’s something timeless about flipping through the pages of a well-worn field guide, the edges softened from years of exploration. I fondly recall looking up tracks in my old Boy Scout Field Guide as a child. Books and field guides like these have a unique way of bringing the art of tracking to life. They offer in-depth information, detailed illustrations, and expert insights that you can carry with you into the field. In this section, we’ll introduce you to some of the most highly recommended tracking books and field guides that can help you unlock the secrets of the natural world, just as the old Boy Scout Field Guide has done for generations of nature enthusiasts.

Online Animal Track Identification References

• Featherbase - An extensive online feather database featuring detailed images and information on bird feathers from around the world, designed to help ornithologists, birdwatchers, and researchers identify species through feather characteristics.
• Gait Abnormality Visualizer - A comprehensive educational tool developed by the University of Minnesota to help students and professionals visualize and understand various gait abnormalities in animals through detailed animations and descriptions.
• North American Animal Tracks Database - A collaborative project on iNaturalist that allows users to document, share, and explore animal tracks across North America, contributing to a growing community-driven database for tracking and wildlife identification.
• U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Feather Atlas - A unique online tool for identifying bird feathers, providing a comprehensive database of high-quality feather images to help enthusiasts, researchers, and educators identify North American bird species based on feather patterns and characteristics.
• Wilderness College: Identifying Animal Tracks - A practical guide from Alderleaf Wilderness College, offering detailed information and resources for identifying animal tracks, including track patterns, tips, and illustrations to help nature enthusiasts improve their tracking skills.

Websites Offering Animal Tracking Information

For those who prefer self-paced learning, websites offering tracking information are invaluable resources. These sites provide extensive knowledge on animal tracking, featuring detailed identification guides, informative articles on tracking techniques, and insights into wildlife behavior. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen your existing skills, these websites offer accessible and comprehensive content to support your learning journey. In this section, we’ll introduce you to some of the best online platforms that provide high-quality tracking information to help you connect with nature and enhance your tracking abilities.

• Bear Tracker’s Animal Tracks Den - Provides detailed information and photos of various animal tracks found in North America, created by wildlife biologist Kim A. Cabrera.
• CyberTracker Conservation - Provides resources and certification programs for wildlife tracking, emphasizing data collection for conservation purposes.
• iNaturalist - A platform that allows users to record and share observations of wildlife, including tracks and signs, with community assistance for identification.
• Nature Mentor - Offers articles and online courses focused on nature connection and animal tracking to help learners understand wildlife signs.
• NatureTracking - A comprehensive resource for wildlife tracking enthusiasts, offering track identification guides, a searchable database of animal tracks, and tools for deepening one’s skills in tracking and understanding animal behavior in natural environments.
• Project Noah - A global platform for nature enthusiasts to document and learn about wildlife, including tracking observations.
• Tracker School - A renowned wilderness survival school founded by Tom Brown Jr., offering courses in tracking, nature observation, and primitive living skills, with a focus on deepening the connection to nature and preserving ancient survival techniques.
• Wilderness Awareness School - An educational nonprofit that offers immersive nature-based programs for all ages, focusing on wilderness survival skills, wildlife tracking, and deepening the connection to the natural world through experiential learning.

Our Favorite YouTube Channels For Tracking Information

If you prefer learning through visual demonstrations and real-life examples, YouTube offers a wealth of channels dedicated to animal tracking and wilderness skills. Experienced trackers and outdoor enthusiasts share their knowledge through engaging videos, making it easier to grasp tracking techniques and identify animal signs.

• Nature Reliance School YouTube Channel - Offers instructional videos on animal tracking, wilderness skills, and survival techniques.
• Primitive Pathways YouTube Channel - Provides educational content on primitive skills, including animal tracking and bushcraft.
• Coalcracker Bushcraft YouTube Channel - Hosted by wilderness survival instructor Dan Wowak, this channel offers educational videos on bushcraft, survival skills, and animal tracking techniques.
• Primitive Survival Skills YouTube Channel - Dedicated to teaching ancient survival techniques, this channel offers a variety of videos on primitive living skills, including animal tracking.

Communities and Forums For Trackers

Engaging with fellow trackers through online communities and forums can significantly enhance your understanding and enjoyment of animal tracking. These platforms allow you to share experiences, ask for identification help, and learn from others who share your passion. Here are some online communities and forums for trackers:

• Reddit r/AnimalTracking - An active subreddit where members share photos of tracks, seek identification assistance, and discuss tracking techniques. It’s a supportive community suitable for both beginners and experienced trackers looking to engage in discussions and share knowledge.
• iNaturalist Community Forum - A forum associated with the iNaturalist platform where users discuss animal observations, including tracks and signs. It’s a great place to connect with naturalists worldwide and get expert input on your findings.
• Bushcraft USA Forums - Tracking - A dedicated section within the Bushcraft USA forums focused on tracking and sign interpretation. Members share insights on animal tracking, wilderness skills, and outdoor experiences, making it a valuable resource for learning and networking.
• Wildlife Tracking and Observation Facebook Group - An active Facebook group dedicated to animal tracking and wildlife observation. Members engage in discussions, share their findings, and help each other with track identification and tracking methods.
• Animals Don’t Cover Their Tracks: Animal Track Identification Help Group - Another active Facebook group dedicated to animal tracking and wildlife observation. Members engage in discussions, share their findings, and help each other with track identification and tracking methods.

Online Tracking Classes

As technology advances, so do opportunities for learning. Online tracking classes offer a flexible and convenient way to deepen your understanding of animal tracking from the comfort of your home. These courses are designed to cater to various skill levels, providing structured learning experiences led by experienced instructors. Whether you’re a beginner eager to grasp the fundamentals or an advanced tracker aiming to refine your skills, online classes can provide valuable insights, practical techniques, and interactive learning opportunities.

• Alderleaf Wilderness College Online Courses (paid) - Offers online courses on wilderness skills, including wildlife tracking. Their courses combine video lessons, reading materials, and assignments to provide comprehensive learning.
• Udemy - Animal Tracking Courses - Hosts a variety of animal tracking courses taught by different instructors, covering topics from basic track identification to advanced tracking techniques.
• Naturalist Studies Basic Wildlife Tracks and Signs (Paid): This Looks like an excellent course but the price may be a bit steep unless you are really interested. I have this course bookmarked and may take it in the future to check it out. If it were half the price I would have already taken it. If I take it I’ll write up a review and link to it from here.
• Alison Free Course on Wildlife Tracking and Monitoring I don’t know anything about this course except that it came up while doing research for this article. Looking at the course description and modules it does appear to cover the essentials and since it’s a free courseI don’t mind including it here. If you have taken this course and have any feedback let me know what you thought.

Mobile Apps

I feel old saying this but in today’s digital age, mobile apps have become invaluable tools for wildlife enthusiasts and trackers. These apps provide on-the-go access to extensive databases of animal tracks, interactive identification keys, and even community platforms for sharing sightings. With features like high-resolution images, range maps, and GPS integration, mobile apps can greatly enhance your ability to identify and record animal tracks while out in the field. In this section, we’ll introduce you to some of the top mobile apps designed to help you learn and practice animal tracking.

• iNaturalist: - This app is one of the most popular nature apps on the market and we recommend checking it out. It will connect you with a huge community of nature lovers to help identify animal tracks. I included a link above to their online database of animal tracks as well.
• Seek by iNaturalist - Seek uses image recognition technology to identify plants and animals from photos, including tracks and signs. It’s user-friendly and suitable for learners of all ages, making it a great tool for families and educators. Available on iOS and Android.
• MyNature apps: - I’ll admit that we haven’t tried this app out yet because it isn’t free. It bills itself as a handheld nature guide. Based on our research it looks like a great resource for identifying animal tracks. It will also help identify plants and animals as well.
• iTrack Wildlife - A comprehensive resource offering a database of tracks from North American mammals through its website and mobile app.

Local Resources Nature Centers, Community Colleges, Parks Etc.

If you are looking for in-person classes check out your regional parks, wildlife management agencies, Audubon Society, nature conservancies, zoos, and other nature resources. Often you can find classes for free, or for a very affordable price. It might take some online looking, and luck, but if their website doesn’t list anything give them a call. Usually the person on the phone can point you to even more resources. Often, if they don’t offer classes they will know who does.

We also find that this map of animal tracking schools is often updated. Each of these schools have certified trainers but it’s not a comprehensive list.

Remember, local experts and enthusiasts within these organizations can be valuable sources of knowledge. By joining local nature clubs or participating in organized events, you can build a network of individuals who share your interest in tracking animals and can offer guidance and support.

In Conclusion

Embarking on the journey to learn animal tracking opens up a world of wonder and connection with nature. With the diverse array of resources we’ve explored—from informative websites and engaging YouTube channels to interactive communities, insightful books, online classes, and innovative mobile apps—you have everything you need to dive into this fascinating skill.

Whether you’re flipping through the pages of a field guide, watching expert trackers demonstrate techniques, participating in discussions with fellow enthusiasts, or using an app to identify tracks in real-time, each resource offers unique insights that cater to different learning styles. The key is to find the methods that resonate with you and immerse yourself in the learning process.

Remember, tracking is more than just identifying footprints; it’s about reading the stories written on the landscape, understanding animal behaviors, and deepening your relationship with the natural world. As you develop your skills, you’ll start to notice details that others might overlook—the subtle signs that reveal the presence and activities of wildlife around you.

We encourage you to take the next step and explore the resources we’ve gathered. Join a community, pick up a recommended book, enroll in an online course, or simply step outside with newfound awareness. The world of animal tracking is rich and rewarding, offering endless opportunities for discovery and growth.

Happy tracking, and may your adventures lead you to incredible encounters and a deeper appreciation for the wild creatures that share our world.

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By Summer and Bill

Summer and Bill are the dynamic duo behind Adventureite.com, a blog dedicated to inspiring others to explore the great outdoors. With a combined lifetime of experience traveling and adventuring across America, they have a wealth of knowledge to share. From hiking to camping, kayaking to travel, Summer and Bill are passionate about helping others discover the beauty of the natural world.