This man, who has well earned his warrior rank with the people, can probably identify the maker of these tracks.  Could be an elk or buffalo but unlikely.  He would know that in a thrice.  Could be one or two people.  Spies were talented in walking in the footsteps ahead of them - but not forever.  Maybe one of his own people.  Whatever, he will have a good percentage guess and act accordingly.  Were it not for the patch of tell-tale snow, he might never have seen them.  Such is the art of tracking.