The science and art of tracking explores the methods used to help us identify animals from the clear tracks, blurry trails and subtle signs they leave behind as they move upon the earth. Through the science of tracking, we'll learn how to identify and record tracks and sign so as to give credibility to our findings. Through the art of tracking, we gain a view of a larger picture of the stories that they tell us.
Little separation exists between the art and science of animal tracking. Learning what is story and what is fact is a skill. By learning how to track, we are introduced to the art of questioning and observation. We learn the subtle influences that the landscape, weather, water, food, predator and prey relationships have on our track and its story. Tracking is always a continuous journey of mystery, an evolving tale in which we play the inquisitive detective.
Over the next few years much of my tracking time will be in creating online tracking tutorials. If you would like to be part of my test review and edit group, drop me an e-mail.
