Tracks Unknown - Goodwin State Forest
TEMJ 20364 - Wildlife Tracking, Tracks and Signs, Beaver Tracks, Turkey Tracks, Outdoor Education, Field Guides, Wildlife Encounters, Trail Adventures, White-Tailed Deer, Fisher, Red Fox, Larch
Greetings Fellow Earthmonks,
This journal entry is about a Fellowship of Earthmonks and our journey to Goodwin State Forest. Here at Goodwin State Forest we conducted a wildlife tracking event, in the snow, on a frosty and windy February morning.
Within the sacred pages of the Earthmonk Journal, the ethereal dance of nature unfolds, and from time to time the journal shall unveil enchanting stories of wildlife tracking and the art of deciphering tracks and signs. This exclusive series, aptly named ‘Tracks Unknown,' will serve as a chronicle of the Fellowship of Earthmonks and their encounters with enigmatic tracks and mysterious signs scattered across the untamed landscapes they tread. Brace yourself for narratives that weave together the poetry of the wild and the profound wisdom hidden within the footprints of creatures unknown.
In the heart of the Goodwin State Forest, where the forest floor becomes a canvas for nature's artistry. Wildlife tracking, akin to reading poetry etched in snow, soil and leaves, unveils the intricate tales of the wild. Each track, each indentation, each piece of scat, whispers stories of survival, perseverance, and the timeless dance of predator and prey. Some of the greatest stories ever written lie in a hidden language waiting to be deciphered.
Tracking For the Beginner
Let’s discuss what it means to have a ‘trackers mind’. What do good trackers think about? There is a great deal of shared knowledge and approach that both trackers and naturalists share. However, what if you are neither a naturalist nor a tracker, what should you consider whenever you go a field? When a tracker steps into nature, they walk away from their busy life and leave it all behind. Tracking is about slowing down and it has nothing to do with the concept of hiking.
Having a tracker’s mind is about being alert, conscious and having an intention, a ‘state of being’ while you are in nature. Tracking is about paying attention to the smallest details. It is this childlike wonder of being amazed and unhindered by the burden of knowledge. Having a trackers mind is about being as open as possible to observations, sensory input, while leaving your assumptions to the side. Approaching every moment with a blank slate. A trackers mind is about being led by awe, wonder, amazement and the hunger for relearning what we humans have forgotten. It is about being open, inquisitiveness, enthusiastic, collaborative, and receptive.
An experienced tracker realizes how much more there is to know. An experienced tracker will sit in the sun, think for a few minutes and let the ever expanding universe of wild wisdom enter into their consciousness! All this wisdom is waiting for you. Are you ready to start tracking wildlife?
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CyberTrackers International
CyberTracker International, founded by Louis Liebenberg in 1999, revolutionized wildlife tracking by merging indigenous knowledge with modern technology. Liebenberg, a South African scientist, recognized the need to preserve traditional tracking skills while adapting them for contemporary conservation efforts.
The organization offers a rigorous certification process to validate tracking expertise. Candidates undergo evaluation through a series of tests comprising 50 questions, with varying passing thresholds: 60% for Level I, 70% for Level II, 80% for Level III, and a perfect score for Level IV. These assessments encompass field observation, track interpretation, and ecological understanding, ensuring proficiency across all levels of tracking mastery. CyberTracker International stands as a beacon, fostering a new generation of skilled trackers dedicated to the preservation of our natural world.
I have also written about CyberTrackers before, if you are interested in learning more about them please read TEMJ 20029.
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Goodwin State Forest
Nestled in the heart of Connecticut, Goodwin State Forest and the James L. Goodwin Conservation Center stand as bastions of environmental stewardship and outdoor education. The forest encompasses over 2,000 acres of diverse ecosystems, offering hiking trails, wildlife observation, and recreational activities. The Conservation Center serves as a hub for environmental education and research, providing programs and resources to inspire a deeper connection to nature.
Robin Chandler
Robin Chandler, is a level 3 wildlife tracker and she is certified through CyberTracker. Robin led this Fellowship of Earthmonks on a wildlife tracking adventure through Goodwin State Sorest! Robin tells us, that while we are all asleep, animals come out to lead a secret night life. The next morning we can walk into nature and try to figure out what happened the night before or the day before. She said, “Who’s been here?”. She said, “Slow down, lets explore the art of tracking together over by the gardens”, which were covered in snow.
One of things to look for whenever you find a track, is to ask the question, “What does this track represent? …does it represent a toe or a foot?”. If it is a foot, we need to ask does it have five toes or four toes on the foot. The ‘heel pad’ is always behind the toes. We can measure the size of the foot box. The space between a shoulder and hip can determine by the distance between the tracks. This distance helps to estimate the overall size of the animal making the tracks.
Tracks can be found in different substrates. We were lucky enough to find many tracks in the snow. Another place to look for tracks is in sandy or muddy areas. The weight of the animal will determine the amount of compression and indentation in the substrate. Each substrate has advantages and disadvantages for clarity and track-retention over time.
Robin's indispensable reference in her fieldwork is "Mammal Tracks & Sign" by Mark Elbroch, now in its second edition. This comprehensive guidebook is revered for its detailed illustrations, particularly the stippled illustrations, which Robin finds to be exceptionally informative. Stippled illustrations, with their intricate dot patterns, provide a nuanced portrayal of mammal tracks and signs, offering richer information content compared to silhouetted illustrations. With this invaluable resource in hand, Robin navigates the wilderness with confidence, unlocking the secrets of the forest floor and unraveling the stories left behind by its elusive inhabitants.
As the Fellowship of Earthmonks strolled past the open-air pavilion, our journey through Goodwin unfolded. Just beyond the pavilion, atop the rocks near the control gate, our keen eyes caught sight of some intriguing scat. Curiosity piqued, Robin Chandler led our inquiry into its origin. Through collective observation and deduction, we surmised it belonged to a canine, specifically a domesticated dog. Robin further enlightened us, explaining the nuances of canine scat – the homogenized consistency indicative of domestic dogs, contrasted with the varied contents of a coyote's scat, a testament to its opportunistic diet encompassing hair, bones, insects, berries, and more. Our encounter underscored the intricate relationships woven within the forest's ecosystem.
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Turkey Tracks
My inaugural venture into tracking at Goodwin State Forest commenced near the gardens bordering the conservation center, where we stumbled upon fresh turkey prints. Robin astutely noted their freshness, likely imprinted that very morning in the crisp snow. Following their trail, we encountered intriguing canine tracks, sparking a lively discussion. Through careful analysis, we discerned the telltale signs indicating a domesticated dog's passage, distinguishing it from the elusive coyote, deepening our understanding of the forest's inhabitants.
Their are respective common names for turkeys that resonate through the forests of North America. The American turkey, scientifically known as Meleagris gallopavo, encompasses both the iconic mature male (a gobbler or tom turkey), the immature male (a jake), and the female counterpart (a hen).
The American turkey, a majestic bird steeped in both historical significance and ecological importance, boasts impressive dimensions. On average, it measures up to 3 to 4 feet in length and can weigh anywhere from 5 to 20 pounds, depending on age and gender. Omnivorous by nature, it relishes a diet comprising seeds, nuts, insects, and even small reptiles.
With its sturdy legs and four-toed feet, the turkey navigates its woodland habitat with remarkable agility. Whether strutting proudly or darting through the underbrush, its movements exude a blend of grace and purpose.
The fourth toe of a turkey, also known as the hallux or hind toe, is indeed positioned behind the other three toes and may lean slightly toward one side. This natural alignment is an adaptation that enhances the turkey's ability to perch securely on branches or roosting sites, as well as aiding in its overall stability while walking or running.
The slight angle of the fourth toe typically points outward rather than inward. This outward angle helps the turkey maintain balance and grip on various surfaces, particularly when perching or navigating rough terrain. It provides the bird with a wider base of support, reducing the risk of slipping or losing footing, which is crucial for their survival in their natural habitat.
During the daytime, turkeys engage in foraging and socializing, often congregating in flocks for safety. As dusk settles, they seek shelter in trees to roost, safeguarding themselves from nocturnal predators. At dawn, they descend to resume their activities, marking the cyclical rhythm of their existence in the wild.
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White Tailed Deer
As we traversed the unimproved carriage road, the forest whispered tales of its inhabitants, and we encountered the tracks and signs of the elusive white-tailed deer. Robin Chandler, our knowledgeable CyberTracker, paused to impart wisdom on discerning the direction of travel embedded within these tracks. With keen observation, she elucidated the presence of dew claw tracks, a subtle yet telling detail of the deer's passage. Through Robin's guidance, we delved deeper into the language of the forest, learning to read its subtle nuances and gaining a newfound appreciation for the interconnectedness of all life within its embrace.
When examining white-tailed deer track and sign, it's crucial to consider several key factors beyond just the prints themselves. Pay attention to the presence of nearby bedding areas, indicated by flattened vegetation and imprints. Look for signs of browse, such as partially eaten vegetation and stripped bark on saplings, which can offer insights into the deer's feeding habits. Additionally, observe any rub marks on trees, created by bucks to mark territory or remove velvet from their antlers. By considering these supplementary indicators alongside tracks, you can gain a more comprehensive understanding of white-tailed deer behavior, movements, and habitat utilization.
Robin did mention that deer don’t have top-front teeth which only allows them to rip and pull and not bite. She also mentioned other tips such as, track size and shape, track pattern, stride length, and depth of impression. By considering these additional tips alongside tracks and signs, you can paint a more detailed picture of the white-tailed deer's behavior, movements, and habitat preferences.
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Red Fox and the Fisher
While hiking along the pond's edge, near the newly installed control sluices, the Fellowship of Earthmonks were enveloped in a discussion about the eerie calls of nature's denizens. While we did not hear either of them that day, we did discuss the haunting cries of a red fox during mating season and the fisher’s cry. We also discussed how the cry of a red fox can pierce the tranquil night time air, resembling a series of high-pitched screams interspersed with guttural barks, evoking a sense of primal urgency. In stark contrast, a Fisher's cry also has a chilling resonance, akin to a combination of a shrill screech and a low growl, which can also send shivers down your spine. Leave a comment and let me know whether you think this scream is a Red Fox or a Fisher. - Sounds and Screams of a Fisher or a Red Fox
We contemplated whether we could tell the difference between the two. Someone suggested doing online research when we returned home later that day. We pondered the mysterious nocturnal predator's presence at Goodwin State Forest. Robin Chandler confirmed that Fishers and red foxes are both present at Goodwin. If you are so incline to hike at night, be prepared for these chilling sounds as a poignant reminder of the untamed beauty and relentless drama unfolding in the heart of nature.
Fisher and Red Fox playing Tag
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Beaver Tracks and Signs
The highlight of the event for me was undoubtedly the enchanting journey along the pond side trail. This scenic path wound its way delicately along the tranquil shoreline, meandering through pristine managed woodlands. It didn't take long for our eager eyes to alight upon the majestic beaver lodge nestled amidst the foliage. Alongside, a congregation of diving ducks added to the spectacle. With binoculars in hand, we marveled at their distinctive features – the Merganser ducks, adorned with striking golden eyes and tufted black heads.
Due to the lack of regulations, by the mid-1800’s, beavers were extirpated from the state of CT. In 1914 a pair of beavers were relocated to the state in an effort to restore beavers to Connecticut.
As we continued our exploration, the signs of industrious beaver activity became increasingly apparent. Small trees bore the telltale marks of gnawing, while others stood as stumps, testament to the beavers' relentless quest for resources. Notably, we observed neatly trimmed seedlings and saplings, severed at precise 45-degree angles, a hallmark of the beaver's meticulous craftsmanship.
Our excitement peaked when we stumbled upon the unmistakable tracks left by these elusive creatures in the soft snow, a silent testament to their presence and influence in this pristine wilderness.
Beaver Tracks
Beaver tracks exhibit notable differences between the front and rear feet. The front feet are smaller and more delicate, typically showing four toes arranged in a semi-circular pattern. In contrast, the rear feet are webbed, larger and broader, often displaying five toes in a more elongated configuration.
Distinctive features of beaver tracks include drag marks between the prints, caused by the belly sliding along the ground as the beaver moves. Additionally, while less common, the tail may leave a slight impression or drag mark behind the hind feet, contributing to the overall track pattern.
Overall, the combination of size disparities, toe arrangements, and drag marks aids in the identification of beaver tracks, allowing wildlife enthusiasts to decipher the presence and movements of these industrious creatures in their natural habitats.
The Beaver
The industrious beaver, known scientifically as Castor canadensis, embodies resilience and adaptability in its habitat. Ranging from 2 to 3 feet in length and weighing between 35 to 60 pounds, this semiaquatic mammal thrives on a diet primarily composed of bark, twigs, and aquatic plants. Beavers are vegetarians.
Equipped with webbed hind feet and a distinctive paddle-like tail, the beaver maneuvers gracefully both in water and on land, constructing elaborate dams and lodges with its formidable incisors. With four legs and five toes on the front feet and four toes on the rear, it efficiently traverses its environment.
Beavers are primarily nocturnal, busily constructing and repairing their dams and lodges under the veil of darkness. However, they may also venture out during dusk and dawn to forage for food. Their behavior shifts with the seasons, as they store food and reinforce their structures in preparation for the harshness of winter, demonstrating their remarkable ability to adapt to changing environmental conditions.
If you are fascinated by beavers like I am, I encourage to read TEMJ 20334. This entry in my journal is about three different beavers, that I know personally.
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Larch Tree
Wildlife tracking transcends mere knowledge of the tracked species; it delves deep into the intricate web of the ecosystem. It necessitates an understanding of the interconnectedness of all life forms, including fellow inhabitants like mammals, birds, insects, and even microorganisms.
Moreover, tracking enthusiasts must grasp the dynamics of the plant kingdom, discerning between native species and invasive intruders. In environments like James Goodwin State Forest, where larch trees flourish, attention to botanical detail becomes paramount. Larch trees, scientifically classified as Larix spp., are deciduous conifers characterized by their needle-like leaves that turn golden before shedding in the fall. Thriving in cooler climates, these majestic trees add a unique charm to the forest landscape, enriching the tapestry of biodiversity that wildlife trackers diligently unravel.
We found several young larch trees along the trail near the beaver lodge.
Trails End
Thank you for getting this far down the trail and for discovering the unknown with me. As the trail concludes, the invitation to subscribe to The Earthmonk Journal resonates, extending an opportunity to further explore the marvels of the natural world here with me.
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- The Earthmonk