The TRACKER allows registered users to enter sighting observations of birds and animals into the Montana Bird Distribution and the Point Observation Databases.  To learn more about User Accounts, click here.

Entering New Observations by Point

When you are logged in to the application, you may enter new observations by zooming into the sighting area. You must zoom in to where the map scale is greater than 1:40,00 (you may read the current map scale to the right of the Natural Heritage TRACKER logo on the top of the screen). The bar scale in the lower left will read approximately 0.33 Miles. When you have zoomed in to the acceptable scale, click the link that states "Add New Observations". Then click on the map at the location when you made the observation. After you click, you will be given a form where you may enter multiple observations / species. When mapping your observation, please zoom in and click as close to your observation site as possible. Required information in the forms is indicated in RED.

Note: Be sure your pop-up blocker is disabled before trying to enter new observations.

Follow the guidance provided on each form. After filling out a form window, click the NEXT button to proceed. At any time, you may back up by clicking on the BACK button or on the TABS across the top of the forms. At the last step, you will be given a chance to review your information before final submission. Once the information is submitted, it will appear as a "Pending" observation in future queries for that species. Pending observations are reviewed by Natural Heritage Program staff before being accepted into the master database.

Entering Observations by QQLL / TRS (from list)

Select either a Quarter Quarter LatiLong (QQL) or Township/Range/Section (TRS) and hit the button to open the Entry Form. Once you have selected the QQLL or TRS locaiton, the remainder of the entry form is essentially the same as entering observations by Point.

Entering Observations by Excel Spreadsheet

You may download an spreadsheet and send your sightings to us as a batch. Then one of our staff will put them in the database for you. More instructions are included in the spreadsheet.

If you have problems, questions, or suggestions, contact the Montana Natural Heritage Program at TRACKER Feedback.