Wildlife in Your Backyard: Identifying Tracks and Signs
Our neighborhoods are teeming with wildlife, even if we don’t always see it. From the curious raccoon to the elusive fox, many animals leave behind clues of their presence. Learning to identify these tracks and signs can turn a simple walk around your yard into an exciting wildlife adventure. In this article, we’ll explore some common wildlife you might encounter near your home and how to recognize their tracks and signs.
1. Raccoons
Raccoons are nocturnal creatures known for their dexterous front paws and masked faces. They are often found rummaging through garbage cans (aka trash pandas) or exploring attics.
Tracks and Signs: Raccoon tracks are distinctive, with five long, slender toes on both the front and hind feet. The front tracks resemble tiny human hands, while the hind tracks are more elongated. Raccoons leave behind various signs, including overturned garbage cans, raided bird feeders, and scat (droppings) that often contain seeds and fruit remnants. They are also very smart and will work to utilize their paws open containers with potential food items, such as dog food containers.
2. Squirrels
Squirrels are common in urban and suburban areas, easily recognized by their bushy tails and acrobatic antics. We have many different species in North America, including fox squirrels and grey squirrels.
Tracks and Signs: Squirrel tracks show four toes on the front feet and five on the hind feet. The hind tracks are larger and often land ahead of the front tracks when the squirrel is bounding. Squirrels leave behind chewed nuts, acorn caps, and small holes in the ground where they bury food. You might also find nests made of leaves high up in trees.
3. White-Tailed Deer
White-tailed deer are the most widely distributed deer species in North America, found from southern Canada to South America. They are easily recognized by their white undersides of their tails. They can often be found venturing into neighborhoods near natural areas in search of food, especially during the early morning and late evening.
Tracks and Signs: Deer tracks are heart-shaped with two pointed toes. The size of the tracks can vary depending on the deer’s age and size. Deer leave behind signs such as nibbled plants, stripped bark on trees, and scat that looks like small, dark pellets. You might also find bedding areas where the grass is flattened.
4. Foxes
North America is home to two common fox species: the red fox and the gray fox. Red foxes are known for their reddish fur and bushy tails with white tips, while gray foxes have a more gray coat and a distinctive black stripe down their tails. Gray foxes are also tree climbers and much more reclusive than red foxes.
Tracks and Signs: Fox tracks are similar to those of domestic dogs but are narrower and more elongated. They have four toes with visible claw marks. Foxes leave behind scat that is often dark and tubular, sometimes containing fur or bones. You might also find dens, which are typically dug into hillsides or under tree roots.
5. Coyotes
Coyotes are adaptable predators that can thrive in urban environments. They are often found in neighborhoods with multiple food sources available, including pet food, small pets, and garbage. They are often heard howling at night.
Tracks and Signs: Coyote tracks are similar to those of dogs but are more oval-shaped and compact. They have four toes with visible claw marks. Coyotes leave behind scat that is often filled with fur, bones, and plant material. You might also find evidence of their presence in the form of dug-up gardens or raided trash cans.
6. Rabbits
Rabbits are common in many neighborhoods, often seen hopping through gardens and lawns.
Tracks and Signs: Rabbit tracks are distinctive, with the larger hind feet landing ahead of the smaller front feet when they hop. The tracks form a “Y” shape. Rabbits leave behind nibbled plants, especially in gardens. Their scat is small, round, and pellet-like, often found in clusters.
7. Skunks
Skunks are known for their distinctive black and white coloring and their potent spray used for defense. There are two different types of skunks in North America: striped skunks and spotted skunks.
Tracks and Signs: Skunk tracks show five toes on both the front and hind feet, with long claws on the front feet. The tracks are similar to those of raccoons but are more rounded. Skunks leave behind signs such as dug-up lawns, as they search for grubs and insects. Their scat is often found near their burrows and can contain insect parts and seeds.
8. Opossums
Opossums are nocturnal marsupials that often scavenge for food in urban areas.
Tracks and Signs: Opossum tracks are unique, with five toes on each foot. The hind tracks have an opposable thumb that leaves a distinctive print. Opossums leave behind signs such as raided garbage cans and scat that is often dark and tubular. You might also find their nests in attics or under decks.
9. Birds
Various bird species frequent neighborhoods, each leaving behind different signs.
Tracks and Signs: Bird tracks vary widely but generally show three forward-facing toes and one backward-facing toe. Birds leave behind feathers, nests, and droppings. You might also find evidence of their feeding, such as pecked fruit or seeds scattered on the ground.
10. Mice and Rats
Mice and rats are common in urban areas, often seeking shelter and food in homes.
Tracks: Mouse and rat tracks are small, with four toes on the front feet and five on the hind feet. Mice and rats leave behind droppings, gnaw marks on food packaging, and nests made of shredded materials. You might also hear them scurrying in walls or ceilings.
Tips for Identifying Tracks and Signs
Look for Patterns: Animal tracks often form patterns that can help identify the species. For example, rabbits leave a “Y” shape, while deer tracks are heart-shaped.
Consider the Habitat: The type of habitat can provide clues about which animals are present. For example, raccoons are often found near water sources, while deer prefer wooded areas.
Use a Field Guide: A good field guide can help you identify tracks and signs. Look for guides specific to your region for the most accurate information.
Observe the Details: Pay attention to the size, shape, and number of toes in the tracks. Note any claw marks or other distinctive features.
Check for Other Signs: In addition to tracks, look for other signs such as scat, fur, feathers, and feeding marks. These can provide additional clues about the animal’s identity.
Conclusion
Identifying wildlife tracks and signs can be a fun and educational way to connect with nature right in your own backyard. By learning to recognize these clues, you can gain a deeper understanding of the animals that share your neighborhood. Whether you’re a seasoned naturalist or a curious beginner, tracking wildlife is a rewarding activity that can bring you closer to the natural world.
So next time you step outside, take a closer look at the ground and the surroundings. You might be surprised at the hidden stories waiting to be discovered. Happy tracking!
