Animal Tracks – What Do They Reveal?
Overview
An animal’s tracks may offer clues that help us to understand its behavior and other traits. Analysis of tracks may reveal an animal’s habitat and food preferences. By analyzing the tracks of several animals, you might even learn how they share limited resources.
In this activity, students practice being biologists by conducting experiments to investigate wildlife through tracks. Students can use the data they collect to classify animals according to consumer category, create presence/absence species lists, and interpret habitat requirements of wildlife. Mathematical skills practiced include measurement and data analysis to document and explain evidence about the natural world.
Objectives
Students will:
- Use a variety of methods to observe, collect, document, classify, and summarize data on animal tracks.
- Use a field guide and related reference resources to identify and interpret wildlife tracks.
- Learn to recognize animals that live in their vicinity.
- Analyze data to explain animal behavior, habitat use, food preferences, etc.
Let's Get Started
Step 1
Print out all worksheets and datasheets. Each student will likely need a copy.
Step 2
Follow the link below to the first step of the online student lesson.
