How to Identify Squirrel Tracks

Whether you are nature-watching, or attempting to do away with a neighborhood nuisance, being able to identify squirrel tracks will help you figure out if this animal is present in your area. As with most mammals, the tracks and other signs left by squirrels are largely based in it's biology, locomotion and other characteristics. Read on to learn more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Find out whether squirrels live in your area. This species needs trees--and lots of them--to provide both food and shelter. Since squirrels are native to all of the Americas, you can expect to find them in any place that provides enough arboreal coverage.
2. Verify that the tracks appear in groups of fours. In the grouping of tracks, the hind legs appear to land in front of the front legs, due to the motion of the animal.
3. Examine the squirrel's rear track. It should show a hand shaped pad with 5 toes resembling 4 fingers and a thumb, much like a miniature human hand. You won't see claw marks.
4. Observe the squirrel's front track. The track only shows 4 toes. You may see a claw mark.

Tips & Warnings

• Often squirrel and rabbit tracks look alike due to their similar "hopping" movement. However, you can compare the pads of the feet to ascertain which is which. A rabbit's foot pads are oval, while a squirrel's are hand-shaped.