Tracking in Wisconsin Lesson Plan

Grades: 5 - 8
Length of Program: 1 - 2 hours
Time of Year: Year round
Preferred Adult/ Student Ratio: 1/10

Summary:

Mud and snow are fantastic places to find signs of those animals we don't always see. In this program, your class will learn how to identify the tracks and track patterns of some common Wisconsin animals. Examination of the footprints of these animals will reveal how different feet help different animals navigate the winter snow or survive in their everyday environment. In winter months, when snow is on the ground, your class can go on an adventure as they identify tracks and discover activity signs left behind by Horicon's resident wildlife.

Teacher Preparation:

None

Academic Standards Addressed:

None

Special Instructions:

Please make sure students are dressed appropriately for winter

Materials:

• Mammal Track ID Handouts
• Mammal Track PowerPoint Presentation
• Mammal Track Molds

Procedure:

Give the Track ID handouts to the class. Go through the different groups of mammal tracks using the PowerPoint presentation. Pass the track molds around and ask them to guess what animals they come from using their handouts. If there is snow outside, take the class on a track hike to test their skills.

Wrap-up:

Allow the students to take the handouts home with them to test their skills in the snow.

Contact Information

Bill Volkert
Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area
N7728 Hwy 28
Horicon, WI 53032
(920) 387-7860

Questions for Wildlife Management