Learn to recognize tracks of mammals, birds, reptiles, and invertebrates on your landscape, and to interpret animal movement and behavior. This explorative practice reveals a hidden world of wildlife sign, and develops the ability to find subtle evidence of animal presence. In short, this skill set facilitates knowledge on a remarkable variety of life in an ecosystem.
Learn to follow tracks through landscapes with the purpose of finding and observing the animal(s) that made them—while remaining undetected. Trailing builds knowledge of wildlife and local landscapes, confidence to follow trail in difficult conditions, heightened awareness and stealth, and an ability to move quietly cross-country in small teams.
Participants are evaluated in the field on their ability to identify and interpret tracks and sign of all species encountered. Tracks may be big or small, clear or obscure.
Participants are evaluated on their ability to follow tracks and find animals. Five aspects are evaluated: spoor recognition, anticipation, situational awareness, alertness, and stealth.
Awarded to those certified in both a Track & Sign and Trailing. Participants receive the lower of the ranks; if one has a Track & Sign Level II and a Trailing Level III, they receive a Tracker Level II.
In my 35 years with Texas Parks and Wildlife, this is by far the best training I have ever attended.
Gene Miller, Texas Parks and Wildlife Biologist
Cybertracker has tested my skills and taught me how to interpret the stories written on the landscape by wildlife. I highly recommend this process to anyone wanting to deepen their skills in this area.
Sarah Spaeth, Conservation Director, Jefferson Land Trust, Washington
The evaluations have provided me opportunities to expand my knowledge and ability to see new patterns in the world. The evaluators are exceptional educators and very knowledgeable naturalists. I highly recommend this experience to any eager learners.
Laura Gunion, Adult Programs Instructor, Wilderness Awareness School, Washington
The Track and Sign Certification was the best personal and professional development opportunity I’ve experienced. The class format challenged me to pull at the threads of information I had learned through my education, work history, and casual observation, and weave them into a tapestry of ecological understanding. I will be directing coworkers and collaborators to this program for years to come.
Brad Westrich, Mammalogist, Indiana Department of Natural Resources
