What tool is commonly used by rangers for tracking wildlife?

Wildlife cameras are a commonly used tool by park rangers for tracking and monitoring wildlife. These cameras, often referred to as trail cameras, are set up in various locations throughout a park or wilderness area to capture images or videos of animals as they pass by.

The benefit of using wildlife cameras is that they allow rangers to gather valuable information about animal behavior, population density, and habitat usage without the need for direct human presence, which can disturb wildlife. This non-intrusive method of observation can provide rangers with critical insights into the health of ecosystems and the species that inhabit them, facilitating better management and conservation efforts.

Other tools like GPS devices, binoculars, and tracking collars also play vital roles in wildlife management. GPS devices allow for precise tracking of animal movements over time, binoculars are useful for observing animals from a distance, and tracking collars can provide real-time location data. However, wildlife cameras uniquely combine observation with the ability to document animal activity in a way that is less intrusive and allows for continuous monitoring.