We will look in detail at track and sign left by a range of birds, mammals, amphibians and invertebrates. Tracking develops our ability to observe subtle details and connect them to landscape-scale patterns.
You will build confidence in sign recognition and interpretation while learning practical applications of tracking for conservation and education as well as simple enjoyment of the natural world. We will explore how tracking can enhance our understanding of the wider ecosystem by drawing upon many different aspects of natural history.
During the weekend we will cover:
Track identification methods
Sign recognition – (including feeding sign, footprints, droppings etc)
Gait interpretation and reading animal behaviour
Ecology through the lens of tracking
Observation, deduction and sensory awareness exercises
Track traps, tracing and casts
Trailing and wildlife observation
Identifying and analysing skulls, bones and feathers
Understanding foot morphology
Interpreting bird calls and behaviour as an aid to tracking
Mapping and journaling