Small Mammals

Two of the most common small game animals are rabbits and squirrels. By studying these animals, you can learn to recognize their tracks.

Some small mammals that are sought after primarily for their pelts are called furbearers. Two popular breeds are fox and mink.

Characteristics of Mammals

• Mammals are warm-blooded animals with hair. Young are nourished with milk from the mother.
• Mammals can be carnivorous (meat eating), herbivorous (plant eating), or omnivorous (meat and plant eating).
• Mammals seek to regulate their temperature. Mammals in cold climates must keep warm, and mammals in hot climates must keep cool.
• Small mammals live shorter lives than large mammals, in general.
• Mammals vary in social behavior—some species live in groups, and other species are solitary except when mating or raising offspring.

Some Small Mammal and Their Tracks