Tracking at Jones Beach State Park

Raccoon tracks at Jones Beach Photo Credit: Hayden Uresk

A great number of animals call Jones Beach State Park their home. The park also has migratory birds, mammals, and insects which visit at different times of the year! One of the issues of wildlife viewing however is that you may not always see these animals. This is where tracking comes into place. Basic track identification is a very easy skill to learn!

The first thing to look for is ground that will holds tracks well. Mud and snow show clearer tracks than dirt or sand. Clearer tracks make easier identification. Another important factor is location. If you understand what animals live in which environment, you’ll be able to get a better idea of what you may be looking at.

When you do go tracking, it is recommended to bring some helpful tools. A ruler is a trackers best friend. A few centimeters will differentiate an American Robin from a European Starling. Rulers also make great reference items for taking pictures of tracks. Field guides are also a great thing to bring. Two large but very in-depth guides are Bird Tracks & Sign: A Guide to North American Species by Mark Elbroch with Eleanor Marks and Mammal Tracks & Sign: A Guide to North American Species also by Mark Elbroch. A good pocket field guide is Local Tracks of North America. This guide also has track and sign drawings and photos by Mark Elbroch but is much smaller and lighter.

Finally, it is important to track safely. You should always bring a friend. This way, you can discuss and identify track identification with company, and in the event of an emergency there is a second person around. Jones Beach State Park provides some great opportunities to test your tracking skills so get out there and track!