Tracks in the Snow
November 23rd, 2010 | News | 0 Comments
Many people come to the Gunflint Trail seeking wildlife experiences but sometimes, despite the omnipresent chattering squirrels and birds at the feeders, it can be hard to believe that any other being is really lurking in the quiet woods. The recent snowfall along the Trail preserves footprints and every other track that passes through the fluff white blanket. These winter tracks allow us to see just how busy natural world really is, even if we don’t always catch the wildlife in action.
Deer Track
One track you’re bound to see a lot of in the wintertime are the tiny prints of red squirrels. These busy little creatures’ tracks crisscross all over: underneath trees, by the bird feeders, on walkways, railings and porches.
Squirrel tracks
An animal track guide can be helpful resource to have in your jacket pocket during a winter outing. Often, the tracks allow us to construct narratives of what the animals have been up to before we arrive on the scene. For example, these tracks lead away from a bird feeder, where a fox sneaked in to steal some of the birds’ suet.
Fox Tracks
If you see a set of large, wide set tracks along the road’s shoulder as you’re driving along the Gunflint Trail at night, that’s a good reminder to slow down and stay alert: you might be about to cross paths with a moose!
Tags: animal tracks, Gunflint Trail, minnesota, wildlife, winter, winter outings
