What does the term 'distinctive markings' refer to in animal identification?

The term 'distinctive markings' in animal identification specifically refers to the physical features that make animals recognizable. These markings can include patterns of color, coat textures, unique spots, stripes, or other characteristics of an animal's appearance that help distinguish it from other species or individuals within the same species. Identifying these distinctive physical characteristics can be crucial for hunters, wildlife watchers, and researchers for ensuring proper identification and assessment of species, which is important for conservation and management practices.

The other options relate to different aspects of animal behavior or social structure rather than identification features. Sounds made by the animal pertain to vocalizations that may help convey information but do not serve as physical identifiers. Movements observed during hunting can offer insights into an animal's behavior but are not definitive markers of identity. Groups formed during migration concern the social organization of animals rather than their physical traits.