Know your surroundings. Becoming a careful observer helps you keep your bearings. You’ll also train yourself to look and listen beyond the obvious, including looking for holes, hollow logs, tracks, and droppings. Until you are familiar with the forest, keep to the trails and always take a companion.

  1. Be prepared.
    • Dress for the weather and for the terrain. If you plan to hike, wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and thick socks.
    • Bring sufficient food and plenty of water.

    Pack the necessary equipment:

    • Camera
    • Film
    • Flashlight
    • Extra batteries
    • Non-aerosol bug repellent
    • First aid kit
    • Watch
    • Binoculars
    • Compass
  2. Be patient. Spotting animals isn’t easy for anyone. But now that you know what to look for and how, you can have fun exploring and learning about the thriving ecosystem around you.
  3. Be quiet, but enjoy yourself. Most animals can hear you before you hear them. It’s important to listen closely as well as look.
  4. Respect The Forest. Remember you’re walking through the home of thousands of animals, birds, insects, and amphibians. Show respect for the environment, and it will continue to thrive for years to come.
  5. Don’t feed the animals. It puts your life in danger, and endangers the life of the animal.