If you’ve ever spotted mysterious tracks in your yard, garden, or even on a dusty attic floor, you’ve probably asked yourself: Who was here?

Knowing how to identify animal tracks is a fun and practical skill—especially in Indiana, where our diverse mix of woodlands, wetlands, and backyards invites all sorts of wild visitors. Whether you're a homeowner trying to solve a mystery or a nature-lover curious about your wild neighbors, this guide will help you decode the clues they leave behind.

🦝 Common Critter Clues in Indiana

Here are some of the most likely track-makers around Hoosier homes:

Raccoon

• Track Shape: Hand-like front paw with five long fingers
• Size: 2–4 inches
• Fun Fact: Their tracks often appear in a staggered walking pattern, like little people marching through the mud.

Squirrel

• Track Shape: Four-toed front paw, five-toed hind paw; hind feet often land ahead of front feet
• Size: 1–2 inches
• Bonus Tip: Look for these near trees or rooflines—they're expert acrobats.

Opossum

• Track Shape: Star-like front feet and a “thumb” on the hind foot
• Size: 2 inches
• Tell-Tale Sign: Drag marks from their tail often appear between the prints.

Red & Gray Foxes

• Track Shape: Oval pads with four toes and a clear “X” pattern from claw to toe
• Size: 1.5–2.5 inches
• Track Tip: Fox tracks are more compact than a dog’s and rarely show claws unless on soft ground.

Rabbit

• Track Shape: Paired hind feet (larger) ahead of small, side-by-side front feet
• Size: 1–3 inches
• Motion: Hopping gait creates a unique “Y” pattern in snow or dirt.

White-Tailed Deer

• Track Shape: Heart-shaped hooves that point forward
• Size: 2–3.5 inches
• Signs Nearby: Look for trails leading to shrubs or garden beds—yum!

When to Spot Tracks

Snow is a natural notepad, but fresh mud, frost, sand, and dusty surfaces all preserve tracks well. The best time to look? Early morning, before wind, rain, or sunlight erases them.

Why It Matters

Identifying tracks helps:

• Pinpoint unwanted attic or crawlspace visitors
• Spot patterns in animal behavior
• Provide valuable info to wildlife professionals (like us!)
• Appreciate wildlife without ever laying eyes on the animal