Final answer:
A hunter can identify the tracks of a wounded animal by looking for blood trails, irregular patterns in the tracks, and disruptions in the environment. Hunters also use expert tracking skills and observations of animal behavior to follow the correct tracks.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine which of several different tracks belongs to the animal that was hit by an arrow, a hunter could look for certain signs that indicate the presence of the wounded animal. These may include:
- Blood trails: Signs of blood on the ground or vegetation can be a clear indicator that the tracks are from the injured animal.
- Irregularities in the pattern of the tracks: A wounded animal might leave an uneven trail, with one side showing a different pattern due to injury.
- Disruptions in the environment: Broken branches, displaced leaves, or disturbed soil can signal the path of an animal moving hurriedly or irregularly due to distress.
Additionally, hunters like the Hadza also rely on expert tracking skills and subtle observations about animal behavior, such as changes in the gait, to follow the correct set of tracks.