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AN INTRODUCTION TO TRACKING AND NATURE AWARENESS
Are you an adventurous nature enthusiast longing to unlock the mysteries of the animal kingdom? Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting woodlands and marshes of Brandon Marsh, Coventry.
We are thrilled to present a one-of-a-kind Wildlife Tracking Workshop, led by seasoned wildlife ecologists Tris Pearce and Sam Devine-Turner. They will guide you in unravelling the hidden wonders of the natural world.
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Date: 30 September 2023
Time: 10.00 am to 4.00 pm
Location: Warwickshire Wildlife Trust, Brandon Marsh, Coventry
Cost: £25 PP
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Highlights of the Workshop
Welcome to the intriguing world of tracking and nature awareness. In this journey, you’ll learn to see, hear, and feel the pulse of the land beneath your feet, and to perceive the whisper of the wind, the symphony of the animals, and the story inscribed in every leaf and track.
Principles of Tracking
Tracking is a technique that involves interpreting the signs left behind by both humans and animals. It’s about understanding the subtle language of the environment, learning to read its signs, and developing an intimate bond with nature.
Sign and the Six Characteristics
Every track or sign can be characterized by its size, shape, pattern, location, substrate (the material it’s made on), and age. Mastering these six characteristics will allow you to interpret signs effectively and accurately.
Utilising our Senses
To truly become one with nature, we must learn to use all our senses to their fullest. Here are some activities that can help you:
Peripheral Vision: By softening your gaze and taking in the entire field of vision, you can better perceive movement and changes in your surroundings.
Deer Ears: Cupping your hands behind your ears as deer do, helps to amplify distant sounds.
Stalk- Creeping up, Place Stick: This technique involves moving slowly and carefully to minimize noise and disturbance, using a stick to test the ground before placing your weight.
Sight – Hide and Seek: An activity to train your eyes to find and follow tracks.
Smell Tracking: Use your sense of smell to detect the presence of animals, identifying specific scents associated with different species.
Learning to Track and Trail Human and Animal
Here, we’ll explore different tracking techniques like:
Box Track: This involves examining a confined area in great detail to identify and analyse every sign.
Positioning: Learning how to position yourself for the best visibility of tracks and signs.
Tracking Stick: A simple tool to help measure tracks and analyse animal gait.
Track a Partner: A fun activity where you’ll follow a partner’s trail, honing your tracking skills in real-time.
Explore the Land
Once you’ve mastered these skills, you’ll be equipped to explore the land in a whole new light. By the end of this journey, you’ll see the world with new eyes, a world filled with wonder, mystery, and fascinating tales of life written on the canvas of nature. Welcome to the art of tracking and nature awareness.
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Refreshments
Tea, coffee, water and biscuits will be available during the day. Lunch can be purchased at the Badger Tea Rooms at Brandon Marsh or please feel free to bring a packed lunch.
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Note: Participants must adhere to all safety guidelines and regulations in place during the workshop to ensure a responsible and enjoyable experience for all. We will be out on the nature reserve at Brandon Marsh in the afternoon. Please wear appropriate footwear and be prepared for rainy weather.
We will be sticking to paths and trails at Brandon Marsh, which should be accessible for most people.
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