What Maine Animal Made These Tracks in the Winter Snow?

We're all pretty familiar with the normal, everyday imprints we see in the snow courtesy of deer, bunnies, moose, or our pets. However, with the freshly laid snow, let's take the opportunity to become familiar with some tracks that I myself have never encountered before.

It's almost like during the summer months, I try to become more familiar with all of the different bugs and tics I may come across. For example, there is not just one type of tick that can harm you.

It's all about preparation, because if something is roaming on your Maine property, or you come across these tracks on a hike, you're probably going to want to know what that animal is, right?

According to the Maine Coast Heritage Trust's tracking guide, there are several prints that I have never seen before.

The tracks of an otter, fisher cat, and coyote may appear quite similar to me, but these are distinct animals, and a couple of them pose significant dangers.

Below is a the tracker guide that shows you the imprints of otters, fishers, porcupines, bobcats, and coyotes.

If you're out on a hike and mistake what you think are otter tracks for those of a coyote or fisher, you could be in serious trouble if they are close by.

So, it's always good to stay prepared when you are exploring Maine in the winter!

Make sure to familiarize yourself with the prints and take a gander at the full tracker guide here.