








The system is divided into two primary components
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.
Validates skilled trackers
Provides unparalleled tracker training
Develops strong naturalist skills
Promotes integrity and scientific inquiry in wildlife tracking
Upcoming Certifications
Get Notified of Upcoming Certifications:
Track & Sign
- March 18, 2021Western Washington - Certification for the Snoqualmie Tribe (Closed to Public)
- March 27, 2021Central Ohio
- March 29, 2021Central Ohio
- April 10, 2021Eastern Washington
- April 17, 2021Southwest Washington
- April 17, 2021Northwest Montana
- April 21, 2021Northwest Montana
- May 1, 2021Eastern Washington
- May 15, 2021Teanaway Community Forest, Washington
- May 22, 2021Olympic Pennisula, Washington
- June 26, 2021Bay Area California
- September 4, 2021Central Minnesota
Track & Sign Specialist
- April 10, 2021South Texas
- April 15, 2021Northwest Montana
Trailing
- May 15, 2021South West Oregon Trailing
- June 19, 2021Central Virginia Trailing
Trailing Specialist
- No upcoming events
Find a Certified Tracker
Track and Sign
Identification and Interpretation
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.
Trailing
Following and Finding Animals
Participants are evaluated on their ability to follow tracks and find animals. Five aspects are evaluated: spoor recognition, anticipation, situational awareness, alertness, and stealth.
Tracker
Bringing it Together
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.
Newest Trailing Evaluator: David Moskowitz
6 New Track and Sign Specialists in the Pacific Northwest
Testimonials
Gene Miller–TPWD Biologist–In my 35 years with Texas Parks and Wildlife, this is by far the best training I have ever attended.
Barry Marten–Western Tracking Institute–The CyberTracker Evaluation is the most accurate indicator of an individuals’ tracking skill yet devised.
Chip Ruthven–TPWD Director, Matador WMA–All staff indicated that this was one of the best training experiences they have had while working for TPWD. This is the type of training that allows us to hone our naturalist skills and become better biologists. I look forward to future evaluations…