User manual

Page 15 of 17
Citizen Wildlife Monitoring Project Last revised May 2012
especially with reference to the highway. For example, if you are able to follow/see tracks this far, how
close does the animal approach the highway? Does it attempt to cross it? Does it walk along it for
some distance? Does it make a lay close to the highway? Does it remain in cover or in full view? See
data sheet and attached notes for how to record these observations.
4. Record the path of the animal by documenting frequent GPS coordinates (with associated commentary
in notes, where appropriate)—especially for Level 1 species. This may be of particular value if the
tracks suggest an attempted highway crossing, as GPS records for tracks found on opposite sides may
help determine whether the tracks probably belong to the same individual, which crossed successfully.
5. Trail Level 1 species as far as possible to gather as much information about the animal as you can. For
Level 2 species, the energy expended trailing should depend on your judgment, safety considerations,
and whether the camera check has been completed.
6. If you have found a Level 1 species, contact Jen Watkins at Conservation Northwest ASAP at 206-
940-7914 (cell), or secondly the Conservation Northwest office at 206-675-9747 x 203 Jen so that we
can quickly alert local biologists.
Procedure for Sign other than Tracks
Follow the procedures outlined above for dealing with track evidence. In addition, take samples of hair
and scat if the animal is or may be a Level 1 species. These samples should be placed in sealed bags and
immediately labeled with camera location/name, date, team-leader’s name and an observation number
(match up with the observation # you use on your data sheet.) Make sure to record the GPS
coordinates.
Procedure for Ambiguous or Unclear Tracks or Sign
1. When ambiguous or unidentifiable tracks are found, the first step is to search the area for better tracks
of the same animal. If there is a trail you can follow, this is one way you may discover clearer tracks for
that individual. In general, look for where the creature has entered more sheltered areas. If the animal
can then be positively identified, record species on data sheets as usual.
2. If clearer identifiable tracks cannot be found, then ambiguous or unidentifiable tracks should be treated
with care, especially if they might indicate a Level 1 Species.
3. If the tracks are possibly Level 1, document them in detail. Follow the usual procedure for
documenting tracks, and ensure good sketches, photos and measurements are taken.
4. Unclear tracks that are clearly NOT a Level 1 species should simply be recorded as “unidentified
species”. In the attached notes, list possible species if appropriate.
5. If you have found a Level 1 species, contact Kit at Conservation Northwest ASAP at 206 462 9252
(cell), or secondly the Conservation Northwest office at 206-675-9747 x 203 Jen so that we can quickly
alert local biologists.
Photographic Documentation Procedure
Key points for photo documentation of single tracks:
 Take photo looking directly down on track to reduce distortion.
 Include two scales, preferably rulers, one running lengthwise, the second widthwise.
 Take at least one picture of the track that includes a card in the picture with Camera
Name/Location, Date and Observation Number and Team Leader’s name.
 Take multiple photographs to ensure you get a quality shot.
Key points for photographing gait patterns and trails: