Animal Tracks Identification
Who walked through your yard? Use this guide to identify common wildlife footprints.
Raccoon Tracks
Look for: Hand-like prints. Raccoons have 5 long fingers on front and back paws that look remarkably like a small human hand.
- Front print: 2-3 inches
- Back print: 3-4 inches
- Claws usually visible
Opossum Tracks
Look for: A distinctive "thumb" on the hind foot that points sideways or backward. Front feet have 5 spread toes.
- Hind print looks like a hand with a wide thumb
- Prints often overlap
- Tail drag marks sometimes visible
Squirrel Tracks
Look for: 4 toes on front feet, 5 toes on back feet. When hopping, the larger back feet land in front of the smaller front feet.
- Blocky shape
- Often found near trees
- Front feet side-by-side
Skunk Tracks
Look for: 5 toes on all feet. Long claws on front feet (for digging) often show up clearly well ahead of the toe pads.
- Bear-like walk pattern
- Heel pad is long
- Claw marks very distinct
Canine vs. Feline
Canine (Coyote/Fox/Dog): Oval shape, 4 toes, claws usually visible. Symmetrical.
Feline (Bobcat/Cat): Round shape, 4 toes, claws retracted (not visible). Asymmetrical leading toe.
Deer Tracks
Look for: Heart-shaped hoof print split down the middle. Two distinct toes.
- Pointed end indicates direction of travel
- Dew claws visible in deep mud/snow
Need Help Identifying?
Take a picture of the tracks and call us. We can help identify the animal and provide a solution.