How to Identify Paw Prints in the Snow

The winter months bring many visitors to your yard and not all of them are wanted! The colder temperatures have many creatures out searching for shelter and prowling around for food. If you notice new tracks in your yard, read on to learn how to identify them with tips from the professionals at Ford’s Hometown Services.

Why Worry About Wildlife?

While seeing a deer or rabbit out playing in the snow can tug on the heartstrings, there are plenty of wildlife lurking around New England you don’t want around your home. When wildlife are comfortable coming up close to your house, it might not be too long before you find an unwanted animal in your garage, attic, or shed. Unfortunately, when wildlife get into your home or buildings, they can do a lot of damage. Plus, many animals can carry diseases, so it’s best to keep a watchful eye on what’s happening around your home. Some common wildlife you might find tracks around your home include:

• Squirrels
• Flying squirrels
• Raccoons
• Skunks
• Opossums

Remember, if these animals are staying in their natural habitat, you should be able to co-exist. But if an animal makes its way into your home or other building, you’ll need to enlist a wildlife trapping expert like the professionals at Ford’s Hometown Services.

How to Track Wildlife

After a fresh snow is one of the best times to see animal tracks, but they can also be easily identified in the mud. The best way to learn to track is to get outside and try it. When you do, consider these tips:

• Get low to the ground. It’s important to study the print closely. Get down on your hands and knees so you can get a good look at the prints. Be sure to note important characteristics, such as the size of the track and whether or not it shows claw marks. It’s often helpful to take a notebook and make a sketch or use your phone’s camera to take a picture.
• Pick the right time. It’s best to track early in the morning or late in the day when shadows make prints easier to see. Remember, try to keep the track between you and the light source.
• Look for animal droppings. Animal droppings, or scat, can also help you track the animal. If it’s dry all the way through, the tracks are likely old. Scat can also tell you if you’re tracking a vegetarian or a meat eater.

Common Wildlife Track Identification

Here are a few common animals tracks you may encounter and what they look like:

Mouse:

Gray Squirrel:

Skunk:

Raccoon:

What to Do if You are Worried

When it comes to wildlife in your home or building, it’s always best to call in an expert. Wildlife can be unpredictable at best and dangerous at worst. If you’ve found unwanted guests prowling around your home, or know you have an animal taking up residence in a shed or attic, calling a professional wildlife trapper like Ford’s Home Services is the best option. Plus, many animals are protected by certain state regulations, so it’s always best to consult with a professional who understands the law.