62 CWMP 2013-2014 Winter Field Season Report
If clearer identifiable tracks cannot be found, then ambiguous tracks, which could
be one of our target species, should be documented with care. Unclear tracks
that are clearly NOT the target species do not need to be documented.
Photograph tracks, trail patterns, and other signs as per photo-documentation
procedures below.
General consideration
Take multiple photographs to ensure you get a quality shot. Take at least one
picture of the track that includes a card in the picture with:
o Date
o Location name
o Observer name
o GPS coordinates and map datum
Individual tracks
Take photo looking directly down on track to reduce distortion. Include two
scales, preferably rulers, one running lengthwise, the second widthwise
(Collapsible ski poles with cm calibrations showing also work).
Track patterns, trails, and other signs
Include a scale of some sort. Often this may be leaving the scale you used for an
individual track on the ground by that track (thus also giving a reference for
where the individual track sits in the pattern). Try to take picture looking straight
down on trail to reduce distortion. If this is impossible due to size of trail, include
scales both near and far to account for distortion. Including a person in a photo
can help with scale for larger frames. Also consider taking photographs of people
looking at the tracks or sign, or pictures, which show the tracks in the context of
the location they are found to accompany the detail photographs.
Trailing And Specimen Collection (Optional/Recommended)
Assuming time and safety permit, attempt to follow the animals trail in both
directions for as long as possible. Trailing is carried out for two reasons:
To collect more geographic information on the potential target species'
trail.
To search for and collect specimens that can be used for DNA analysis
(e.g. hairs or scats).
If you are able to locate and collect a genetic specimen related to tracks which
you have photo documented, carefully collect the specimen following the same
guidelines laid out for our camera traps which also include genetic specimen
collection or our wolverine track documentation protocol
(http://www.conservationnw.org/what-we-do/northcascades/pdf-reports-and-
forms/2010_wolverine-protocol-1).
Out Of The Field
Once you come out of the field contact Conservation Northwest for specific
instructions on how to handle delivery of materials (photographs, specimens).
