This beginner course will introduce you to the ancient art of wildlife tracking. Tracking involves a range of skills. This course will teach you to follow clues, work out what the animal was doing and when, and maybe even find the animal itself.
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, specifically their movement and feeding ecology.
What will be covered during this course?
- Introduction to mammal and bird foot morphology, how that relates to the tracks we find in the field and helps us identify the trackmaker.
- Introduction to commonly found wildlife signs, how to identify these and what they tell us about the animals that left them.
- An overview of some of the key techniques for identifying and interpreting tracks and signs including master listing.
Images by David Wege
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This beginner course is a great place to start for those looking to improve their ability to identify a range of wildlife tracks and signs. You will learn skills to confidently identify a variety of mammal and bird activity including the physical appearance and ID features of tracks, feeding signs, homes, and droppings. We will explore the outdoors to find and discuss examples of tracks and signs, leaving you with a solid introduction to the world of tracking. Be inspired and engaged by the expertise of our specialist tutor and enjoy being surrounded by like-minded individuals who share your interests.
By the end of the course, you will be able to:
- Describe the basic types of tracks and signs and identify key features
- Identify examples of specific animals from their tracks and signs
- Recognise a variety of tracks and signs in their natural environments and what they mean
- Share this knowledge with friends, family, and fellow volunteers.
PLEASE NOTE the course fee is for tuition only. There is no accommodation provided with this course.
Who Should Attend? – Nature enthusiasts, Students, Early career ecologists, Citizen scientists, Volunteer surveyors
Knowledge Level – Beginner. Level descriptors can be found on the following web-page: Framework and Course Level Descriptors
Prior Knowledge – No prior knowledge is required, though those with previous experience would still benefit as the tutor is open to answering a range of questions at different levels.
Please email [email protected] if you have any questions.
About the Tutor
Dan Puplett
Dan Puplett is a naturalist and nature educator, and has been involved in a wide range of conservation projects. He has a Professional Certificate in Track and Sign from CyberTracker Conservation, the global standard for assessing trackers in the field. Dan is the author of the Field Studies Council Guide to British Bird Tracks & Signs and the Guide to Mammal Tracks & Signs (2nd ed.). He founded Dan Puplett Nature Awareness in 2011 and teaches naturalist skills to people of all ages.
Example Timetable
Timings of this course vary between locations, so please carefully check the times on the course run (the section where you can add the course to your basket towards the bottom of this page).
There will be a lunch break during the day, the length of the break will vary depending on course location. Lunch is not included so please bring your own food. Refreshments (tea and coffee) will be provided.
What's Included
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Expert Tuition
The course has been carefully created by expert tutors and educators to help you continue to build and develop 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
- Refreshments (tea and coffee)
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.
Reviews
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★★★★☆
I loved being in such a knowledgeable and keen group from a wide range of backgrounds.
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★★★★☆
It was hands on, along with useful classroom back up
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
What to Bring:
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- Notebook and pencil
- Camera to capture images
- Packed lunch and all refreshments for the day
- Sensible footwear and clothing for being outdoors
Recommended Publications:
You may wish to purchase the following Field Studies Council publications available in our shop to enhance your experience:
- Guide to British Bird Tracks & Signs
- Tracks & Signs of Mammals of Britain & Ireland
- Guide to the Land Mammals of Britain
- Guide to Owls and Owl Pellets
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.
Opportunities to attend this course
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Sat 19, April 2025 10:00 - 17:00
Further information, directions and car park charges for Bennachie Visitor Centre 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 online courses please check 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.
