Which of the following methods should a hunter use to safely mark a blood trail?

Carrying flagging tape is the most effective method for marking a blood trail while hunting. It provides a clear and visible way to indicate the path the animal took without disturbing the environment too much. The bright color of flagging tape makes it easy to spot from a distance, allowing hunters to retrace their steps when tracking a wounded animal.

Unlike using rocks or sticks, which may not be consistently visible or could be easily moved or overlooked, flagging tape does not rely on natural elements and can be placed at regular intervals for better guidance. Drawing a map can be too abstract in a practical scenario where quick and immediate tracking is necessary; it also requires the hunter to pause and take the time to document, which isn’t practical in all situations. Therefore, carrying flagging tape is the best choice for safely and effectively marking a blood trail.