Animal Tracks of Alberta

Janet Arnett is the former campus manager of adult education at Ontario’s Georgian College. She is the author of Antiques and Collectibles: Starting Small, The Grange at Knock, and 673 Ways to Save Money.

These mini-format field guides take the mystery out of animal tracks,
whether in the backyard or in a remote wilderness park. The guides cover
all mammals native to the area, as well as a few reptiles and birds
whose tracks are likely to be encountered by hikers and amateur
naturalists.

Each book features detailed illustrations of the tracks of
approximately 60 animals. In addition to familiar animals, the guides
also include less familiar ones, such as Ord’s kangaroo rat and least
weasel (Alberta guide); snapping turtle and harbour seal (Atlantic
Canada guide); star-nosed mole and northern pocket gopher (Manitoba
guide); northern and southern flying squirrels and Norway rat (Quebec
guide); 13-lined ground squirrel and mountain cottontail (Saskatchewan
guide); grizzly bear and Dall’s sheep (Alaska guide); pika and skink
(British Columbia guide).

A small section on common bird tracks (Canada goose, gull, grouse, owl,
etc.) is included in each of the guides. For each animal, the guide
provides an isolated print of both fore and hind feet, a characteristic
movement pattern (hopping, running, walking), an excellent illustration
of the animal, measurements of the prints and stride, a brief but
information-packed paragraph on the animal’s habitat and behaviors,
and a note on similar species. A quick reference on tracking patterns
and prints, plus comparative plates on hoofed prints, fore prints and
hind prints are invaluable for fast in-the-field identification.

Their compact size, attention to detail, clear organization, and the
top quality of both text and illustrations make these guides must-haves
for hikers, campers, hunters, naturalists, and property owners.