Tracking is an ancient skill that is still relevant in the modern world. It is useful in conservation, outdoor education and more, as well as deepening our connection to nature and developing faculties such as deduction, observation and intuition. It teaches us to observe fine details as well as landscape scale patterns and is a gateway into learning more about nature and becoming more aware in our daily lives. When we start solving a tracking mystery in a footprint, we soon find ourselves discovering more about birds, trees, plants, weather, insects and more . . .

In this workshop will cover some of the key skills to develop your tracking ability:

• Identifying and interpreting wildlife tracks and signs

• Aging track and sign

• Ecological tracking – reading the landscape

• Bird language; interpreting bird calls and behaviour

• Bones, skulls and feathers

• Sharpening the senses and observation skills

• Tracking games and activities for educators

• Citizen science: tracking and conservation

• Tracking and nature connection

The course is aimed at anyone with an interest in nature and wildlife including outdoor educators, conservationists and bushcrafters as well as anyone simply wanting to deepen their understanding of the natural world.

£120 (£100 for members of the Institute for Outdoor Learning) Book here!

Practical arrangements

This course is self-catering and accommodation is not included. Camping and B&Bs are available very nearby. 

Dan Puplett is a naturalist, outdoor educator and wildlife tracker who has had a passion for wildlife from an early age. He has extensive experience of tracking and has a certificate in Track and Sign (98%) from Cybertracker (the rigorous, internationally recognised standard for certifying trackers). He has been involved in a wide range of conservation projects and has assisted in leading wolf and lynx tracking surveys in Slovakia.