The Ultimate Sas Guide To Tracking: Master the Art of Wilderness Navigation

Do you have a hunger for adventure and a desire to explore the great outdoors? If so, then learning the art of tracking is an essential skill that will take your wilderness experience to the next level. Whether you're an avid hiker, nature enthusiast, or survivalist, understanding how to follow animal tracks and signs can provide you with invaluable knowledge and enhance your overall outdoor experience.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the world of tracking and equip you with the necessary techniques and insights to become a skilled tracker. From identifying animal footprints to deciphering scat and other signs, you will learn to read nature's hidden language and gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world around you.

Why Should You Learn Tracking?

Tracking is more than just a practical skill; it is a Mosaic of art, science, and ancient wisdom that connects you deeply to the natural environment. Here are some compelling reasons why you should invest your time in mastering the art of tracking:

The SAS Guide to Tracking

by Bob Carss(3rd Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5965 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	392 pages

FREE

• Enhanced Awareness: Tracking forces you to slow down and observe your surroundings more carefully, sharpening your senses and heightening your awareness of the environment.
• Wildlife Encounters: By learning how to track animals, you can increase your chances of encountering various wildlife species in their natural habitats.
• Survival Skills: In a survival situation, being able to track animals can provide you with vital information about food sources, water, and potential dangers.
• Connection with Nature: Tracking allows you to immerse yourself in nature and gain a deeper understanding of the delicate balance of ecosystems.
• Sense of Fulfillment: Successfully following a trail and unraveling the mysteries of an animal's journey can be incredibly satisfying and rewarding.

Understanding the Basics: Identifying Tracks

Before diving into become a master tracker, you must first learn how to identify different types of tracks. Each animal leaves behind unique footprints that contain valuable information about their size, gait, and behavior.

Key elements to look for when identifying tracks include:

• Shape: Observe the overall shape of the footprint, including the number of toes and the presence of claws or pads.
• Size: Measure the length and width of the track to estimate the animal's size.
• Pattern: Analyze the arrangement of the tracks to determine the animal's gait (e.g., walk, trot, gallop).

Additionally, it's crucial to identify other signs such as scat, fur, feathers, markings on trees, and disturbed vegetation that can provide additional clues about the animal's presence and activities.

The Art of Tracking: Techniques and Tips

Tracking is an ancient skill that has been refined over generations. Here are some essential techniques and tips to help you become a proficient tracker:

• Track Box Method: To preserve tracks for analysis, create a track box by placing clear plastic or glass over the track and surrounding area, carefully removing it from the ground, and preserving it for further examination.
• Backtracking: By studying tracks in reverse order, you can follow an animal's trail to its origin, potentially providing insights into its behavior and habits.
• Track Aging: Differentiating fresh tracks from older ones is essential to determine how recent the animal's presence was. Factors to consider include moisture, temperature, and any overlapping tracks that indicate activity in the area.
• Track Casting: Creating a plaster cast of a track can help you study it in detail and compare it to field guides or seek expert advice for identification.

Common Animal Tracks: A Guide

While tracking any animal requires patience and practice, familiarizing yourself with the tracks of common wildlife species can significantly improve your tracking abilities. Here are some popular animal tracks and signs to look out for in the wild:

Remember, accurate identification comes with practice and knowledge accumulation. Carrying field guides and seeking advice from experienced trackers can further enhance your tracking skills.

Tracking Etiquette: Leave No Trace

While tracking is a thrilling pursuit, it's essential to practice responsible tracking and leave no trace behind. Follow these guidelines to minimize your impact on wildlife and their habitats:

• Stay on designated trails: Stick to established paths to prevent trampling vegetation and disturbing the natural environment.
• Do not disturb animal habitats: Avoid getting too close to nests, dens, or burrows and never interfere with an animal's natural behavior.
• Keep a safe distance: Observe wildlife from a distance using binoculars or a zoom lens to avoid causing stress or potential harm.
• Leave what you find: Refrain from collecting natural objects or disturbing the surroundings.

Tracking Resources: Books and Courses

If you're passionate about tracking and want to further refine your skills, consider exploring the numerous resources available. Here are some recommended books and courses:

• Books: "The SAS Tracking Handbook" by Barry Davies and "Mammal Tracks & Sign: A Guide to North American Species" by Mark Elbroch.
• Courses: "Wilderness Tracking: The Definitive Guide" by Tracker School and "Animal Tracking Basics" by the Wilderness Awareness School.

By immersing yourself in these resources, you'll gain valuable insights and knowledge that will elevate your tracking abilities to new heights.

Becoming a skilled tracker is a lifelong journey that requires patience, practice, and a deep appreciation for the natural world. By mastering the art of tracking, you can unlock a whole new level of connection with nature, enhance your outdoor experiences, and gain valuable survival skills. Remember, leave no trace and always respect wildlife and their habitats. Happy tracking!

The SAS Guide to Tracking

by Bob Carss(3rd Edition, Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5965 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	392 pages

FREE

With a Foreword by John “Lofty” Wiseman, author of The SAS Survival Handbook!

Anyone who has spent any time outdoors has come across strange tracks and wondered, “What was here?” In this new and revised edition of The SAS Guide to Tracking, a veteran of Britain’s elite Special Air Service shows how to track any moving thing, in any environment, and under nearly any circumstance. An essential handbook for developing a new awareness of the outdoors, this book is the perfect companion for naturalists, outdoorspeople, hunters, wildlife photographers, search-and-rescue teams, and law enforcement organizations.

Included are tips on:

• Tracking in desert, forest, jungle, marsh, and grassy areas
• Interpreting animal, human, and vehicle signs
• Preserving night vision
• Using time frames to eliminate misleading signs
• Detecting quarry when they backtrack or circle around
• Interpreting how time and weather affect signs
• Spotting intentionally misleading signs