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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). Immediate communication is highly valued as strong
evidence may solicit a hasty follow up response in the area of discovery that might include setting
up/resituating remote cameras, hair snags, or follow up tracking surveys.
Acknowledgements
The field methods documented here represent the work of many individuals over the course of the years
this project has been underway. Thanks much to all of the past CNW staff and project volunteers that
have written, revised, or offered feedback on this and past versions of this document. A special thank
you to members of the project's Advisory Council for lending their time to the continued development of
our field methods.
Appendix: Track Photo Documentation Guidelines
PHOTOGRAPHS OF INDIVIDUAL TRACKS:
1. Take photo looking directly down on track to reduce distortion.
2. For close up photographs, fill the entire frame with the track and measuring devises
3. Include two scales, preferably rulers, one running lengthwise, the second widthwise.
4. Take at least one picture of the track that includes a card in the picture with:
● Site Name
● Date
● Observation Number
● Team leader's name.
