How to Track Fishers

Weighing up to 15 lb., the fisher is one of the larger members of the weasel family. The fisher lives in all areas between the Sierra Nevada and Appalachian mountains, across Canada and into southern Alaska. They prefer deep woods, although people have seen them in more populated areas.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Examine the heel pad of the track. The fisher has a definite �c� shaped heel. The entire print will measure 3 by 4 1/2 inches.

2. Count the toes. The fisher has 5 bulbous toes on each foot. Although their claws are not retractable, they get worn down by the constant contact with soil, rock and trees, so they often don't register on a print.

3. Measure the stride. Measure from the top edge of the aft print to the top edge of the fore print on the same side (right or left). The fisher's stride can vary greatly depending on his speed, with the general stride being between 9 and 24 inches.

4. Measure the straddle. Measure from the outside stride line to the outside of the opposite print. The general straddle is 4 1/2 to 6 inches.

5. Step back and look at the trail as a whole. The fisher gait varies depending on his activities. He usually moves in a direct register or 2-2 patter, where his hind feet step on top of his front feet tracks, but he may also walk in a 3 bound ( where only one rear foot steps on a front foot track) or a full 4 bound, where all four feet are visible.