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.
Get Notified of Upcoming Certifications:
Track & Sign
Track & Sign Specialist
Trailing
Trailing Specialist
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.
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…
