When I was a leader in the Scouts Canada Beavers group, (5-8 years olds) I thought of an interesting way for children to learn to identify the footprints of different animals. While being a fun activity, it is also useful if both parents and children are able to recognize mystery footprints around the yard, or anywhere outdoors, where wildlife can prowl and possibly pose a threat to the unsuspecting. This activity works well for solo or group play and can be played often.
First I searched for animal footprint pictures on the internet, and from books at the library, from which to make lifesize patterns to cut out. Get the front and rear footprints if possible. The best animals to choose are those common in your area that are both threatening and non-threatening including domestic household pets. While snakes do not actually leave footprints, they can leave a unique impression in loose soil, so consider them too. Other critters that deserve consideration are those at the seaside that leave tracks in the sand when the tide is out. If you plan on travelling, select animals common to that area.
The footprints prints can be traced, drawn freehand, photocopied, copied to a word processor or graphics program, and enlarged or reduced to get lifesize patterns. After the selected animal prints are made, find small thumbnail pictures of the animals to list on a sheet of paper, and then make enough printed copies so each participant can have their own. These patterns and lists can be copied and re-used a multitude of times. To get you started, click on the pictures below, and print them.
To play, place a variety of numbered cutouts around the activity area, either indoors or out. With illustrated list in hand, have the participants, or trackers go on a nature walk around the area finding and identifying the footprints by writing the number down beside the animal picture on their list. Later the lists are checked for accuracy.
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