by Kyt Lyn Walken
Imagine a reunion between children and Nature
The primitive art of reading and interpreting man made tracks (“Mantracking”) has all the characteristics to be considered as an almost occult science. Yet, based exclusively on the careful reading and analysing what the different terrains offer us, it turns out to be a real science.
We, as adults, tend to see this skill as hard to master, especially in such a frenetic world and people forever in a rush.
Nonetheless, some human beings don't. And, more than that, they excel in gaining the fundamentals of such a complex Art which deals with botany, geology and even forensics. This special niche of people are.. kids and teenagers.
This Art, which has tens of thousands of enthusiasts all over the world (including biologists, conservationists and/or simply curious people), preserves the few, simple rules that have distinguished it and kept it from oblivion over the centuries.
The observation of man as well animal behaviour, the knowledge of nature’s principles and the systematic application of them represents the first step in entering this discipline.
My personal experience in working with kids (from 5 years old to 14 years old) gives me the constant confirmation that their attitude, curiosity and, above all, strong common sense (which, sad but true! Many adults lack of) turn them into amazing detectives. Which, “tout court” ie simply, turns them into brilliant young Trackers.
As one of my instructors wisely said, Tracking is certainly not Voodoo, nor does it require any particular skills other than patience, self-discipline, honesty and concentration. Kids and teenagers prove it magnificently.
This art is in fact based on three phases:
- observation
- reading
- interpretation
The "Tracker" tools consist of:
- a measuring device
- a flashlight (mostly a hand flashlight)
- note paper, pen and pencil
- tweezers (to remove any debris on the tracks)
Anyone can therefore develop the techniques necessary to achieve good success in this Art.
At the same level, any experienced Tracker can "get rusty if away from Tracking for too long" (Bob Carss, 2009)
As mentioned above, experience plays a vital role in your journey.
Different terrains, varied environments, various weather conditions combined with certain physical and mental conditions are the main factors that influence the growth path in the art of Tracking.
Kids and teenagers are not only eager to learn, but they own the proper, inquisitive mind to deal with the rules of Tracking skills in an amazing way.
It’s important to stay humble and be ready to accept mistakes.
Just like learning any other skill I was amazed by discovering that kids who suffer from autistic disorder have an excellent ability to detect, to read and to follow tracks.
When we follow a trail, we must necessarily use all our senses. Although the eyes perform the main job, the sense of smell and hearing are equally important.
When on trail, get used to seeing, hearing, smelling everything you are surrounded by. Sharp observation to detect traces enable the creation of a sort of visual and subsequently mental file.
In order to comprehend, achieve and consolidate Tracking skills here are some simple exercises you can perform with all the members of your family. They are supposed to help you gain more confidence in your sight while on track:
1. While doing any Outdoor activity, get used to raising your eyes often and suddenly.
Official Representative & Instructor at Hull's Tracking School
The way of Tracking - European Mantracking School
Certified Wildlife Conservation Ranger at Conservation Ranger Operations Worldwide
Directora de Rastreo Humano por Dynamic Tracking (Spain) kytwalken@gmail.com
Official Instructor for Mantracker Germany (Germany)