This beginner half-day course is a great place to start for those looking to identify a range of tracks and signs.
You will learn skills to enable you to identify a variety of mammal and bird tracks and signs. Tracking is a great way for nature enthusiasts and early conservationists to hone their ability to observe details around them and to build their knowledge of wildlife.
This course will include:
- Understanding basic tracks and signs for mammals and birds.
- Practical experience in identifying tracks and signs we encounter with an expert tutor.
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By the end of the course, you will be able to:
- Explain the major categories of tracks and signs and some examples.
- Identify some common mammal and bird tracks and different animal signs.
Who Should Attend? – Nature enthusiasts, students, rangers.
Knowledge Level – Beginner. Level descriptors can be found on the following web-page: Framework and Course Level Descriptors
Prior Knowledge – No existing knowledge or experience is needed for this course, just a willingness to explore and learn.
PLEASE NOTE: There is no accommodation or meal facilities provided with this course. Refreshments (tea and coffee) will be available. If we are unable to reach viable numbers for this course, we will inform you of the course cancellation 4-5 weeks prior to the course run. We would recommend when purchasing accommodation and/or travel you should take out your own insurance.
Bookings will close if course capacity is reached.
Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.
About the Tutor
Dr Jackie Symmons
Dr Jackie Symmons is an experienced freelance ecologist and conservation land management adviser from Mid Wales. She has an extensive background in delivering conservation field research and training from wild deer impacts to marine and terrestrial environment habitat surveys. She is also currently working in the area of natural resource resilience and climate change mitigation.


Example Timetable
Timings for this course may vary, so please check the start and end times of the different course runs at the bottom of the page.
Please arrive in time for the course to start promptly.
This course will involve both classroom learning and field excursions to cover all of the learning objectives.
What's Included
The course has been carefully created by expert tutors and educators to help you build your knowledge and apply it within the field surrounded by like-minded individuals.
The course includes:
- Classroom learning covering the theory of the species
- Field excursions to apply new knowledge
- Expert tuition for which the Field Studies Council is renowned
- Clear objectives and progression
You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be provided. In choosing a Field Studies Council course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.
Bursaries and Subsidies
Student Discount
This course is eligible for a student discount. If you are a current student, please use discount code BioStudent20 at checkout for 20% off all Biodiversity courses.
Natural History Bursaries
There are a number of natural history bursaries available to help with the cost of your course. To find out if you and your chosen course are eligible, read more here.
Before You Attend
There will be a member of staff with first aid training and access to a first aid kit on site. If you have special medical or access requirements, please let us know as soon as possible so we can plan the course.
What to Bring
- Notebook and pencil
- Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors
- Small bag to carry personal items
Recommended Literature
As part of this course, you will receive a copy of the Field Studies Council WildID Guide: Mammal Tracks and Signs from your tutor to use during your course and to take home.
The tutor will also have copies of the WildID Guide Bird Tracks and Signs for use during the course, but you may want to purchase your own copy.
Opportunities to attend this course
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Fri 21, November 2025 09:00 - 11:30
Directions and further information on Bute Park can be found here.
No current dates for this course? Click here to view all the upcoming Natural History courses.
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Progress Your Learning
This is a training course from the Field Studies Council, delivered by expert tutors with an approachable learning style. After attending this course, you may like to progress your learning with further relevant courses or branch out into other areas of natural history. The Field Studies Council offers both online and in-person courses, so you can choose the learning style that suits you best.
The course gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in a new subject and acquire novel skills. Our online portal gives you time to study at your own pace and fit the lessons around your own schedule.
If you have any questions about our courses please check out our Frequently Asked Questions or email [email protected].
Group Bookings Made Easy
If you have a group of 10 or more individuals wanting to complete one of our courses, our team are available to discuss your options – from discounts to private team courses. Find out more!
You can rest assured that the absolute best content from an expert in environmental education will be at your fingertips. In choosing a Field Studies Council course, you will be joining thousands of people who learn with us each year.