Chapter 5. Tracks, scats & traces

A number of methods can be used to obtain information on fauna that does not require the capture and handling of the animal. The search for and identification of tracks, scats and other traces can constitute a valuable contribution to survey data as long as the information is captured within a measurable area and timeframe. The following methods are provided as an indication of possible activities. Survey participants are advised to choose the most relevant method as each landscape will dictate the potential for implementation of each method. 

Given that there are two major sampling patterns on Tona Station, namely the quadrat and the transect it is efficient to utilise these reference points to perform a scats, tracks and other traces search within or along these semi-permanent structures. To do so, the survey participants must form a team that can perform a ‘sweep’[1] of either the quadrat or the transect. In the case of the quadrat it is a simple case of covering all ground and the team will find that they are not limited by numbers (as reversal sweeps can be performed within a complementing time frame). However, in the case of the transect (500m), the team will become limited by the number of sweeps that can be performed within a certain time frame. The best way is to imagine that the transect is 500m long by 20m wide and that all ground within this area must be inspected by participants. An important step to remember is that each time a scat, track or trace is identified by a member, the material must be marked (as identifiable by all other team members) so that the material record is not repeated during the duration of the survey. Materials that should be targeted by teams are as follows; tracks (scratchings & footprints), scats (diet information contained within), shelters (including burrows and signs of feeding) and skulls, skeletons and hides/fur.

Within a quadrat survey, ‘sand beds’[2] can be established to provide a media that is conducive to maintaining evidence of activity until the survey team resets the media (simply rakes over the sand). In areas that are densely vegetated or, it is obvious that there a number of tree hollows available for habitat, hair tubes can be used to capture information on species.

Suggested equipment list

1. Clipboard
2. Field data sheet
3. Measuring tape (50 m)
4. Scats, tracks & traces field handbook
5. Compass
6. Pencils & sharpener
7. Hair tubes
8. Marker flagging
9. Rake (hand trowel)
10. Camera & film
11. Sample jars