Introduction to Wildlife Track & Sign

Join us on Sunday, April 21 from 12:00 - 3:00 PM for an immersive experience in the world of wildlife tracking. Located in the picturesque Skagit County, WA, this field course will provide participants with insights on identifying animal tracks in their natural habitat. Our expert guides will enlighten attendees on common track patterns, gaits, and animal behaviors, offering a comprehensive understanding of the nuances of wildlife movement. Moreover, participants will learn the art of casting tracks, enabling them to take home tangible souvenirs for further study and appreciation of the animal kingdom's secrets.

• Date: Sunday, April 21st, 2024
• Time: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
• Location: TBA
• Registration Fee: $50 per person
• Kids under 12 are free, but all students under the age of 18 must be accompanied by their parent or a legal adult guardian. We love teaching youth programs and would love the opportunity to support their learning.

Our Intro to Wildlife Track & Sign field course offers a comprehensive exploration into the fascinating world of wildlife tracking. Participants will delve into the intricate details of wildlife track identification, track patterns for mammals, common animal behaviors, habitats, and the essential skill of casting tracks.

During the course, participants will learn how to distinguish various types of wildlife tracks based on size, shape, gait, and other key characteristics. Emphasis will be placed on developing an eye for detail to accurately identify tracks left behind by different animals.

Participants will gain insights into the distinctive track patterns created by mammals across different terrains. From bounding and loping to galloping and walking, understanding these patterns is crucial for interpreting the movements and behaviors of wildlife in their natural habitats.

Through engaging discussions and hands-on activities, participants will learn about the behaviors and habitats of common wildlife species. Understanding how animals interact with their environments will provide valuable insights into tracking and interpreting the signs left behind by them.

One of the highlights of the course is the hands-on practice of track casting. Participants will learn how to create detailed casts of tracks using plaster or other suitable materials, allowing them to preserve and study tracks for further analysis and documentation.

Join us for an enriching experience in our Intro to Wildlife Track & Sign field course, where you will immerse yourself in the art and science of wildlife tracking under the guidance of experienced instructors. Gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world as you sharpen your observational skills and uncover the hidden stories written on the ground by our wild neighbors.

12:00 PM - 12:15 PM: Meetup and Introduction

• Gather at the designated meeting location for a brief orientation.
• Meet your knowledgeable naturalist guide and fellow participants.

12:15 PM - 2:30 PM: Guided Hike

• Learn about the wildlife that live in Skagit County and how to identify their tracks.
• Practice casting tracks and take a cast track home with you for further study.

2:30 PM - 3:00 PM: Conclusion

• Return to the trailhead with newfound knowledge and appreciation for the local fauna.
• Wrap up the hike with a group discussion and opportunity for questions and reflections.

Matt Hale grew up exploring the mountains and forests of Washington’s Skykomish Valley. Since childhood, he dedicated his time to deeply knowing and understanding the flora, fauna, and fungi of the Pacific Northwest. He graduated from Alderleaf Wilderness College in 2015 where he earned a Permaculture Design Certificate in association with the Bullocks Permaculture Center, as well as a Cybertracker Track & Sign Level II certification. Matt is a talented outdoor educator with a passion for human psychology, wilderness emergency medicine, natural building, and sustainable farming. When he’s not foraging for wild edibles or identifying mushrooms in the forest, you can find Matt dropping into half pipes on his skateboard, or crafting in the wood shop.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Mount Vernon, United States