Even today there is a great deal that is unknown about the habits of some of our most common animals. Every Scout who goes into the woods should know something of the unseen life that is all about him. There are various ways to study these creatures of the woods, but some general rules of observation may be useful.
Remember that every animal from the smallest mouse to the largest bear and deer, has his own life history. All have to compete for a livelihood. The only way we may know of their habits is to use our eyes, ears and brains. Patience and care, combined with a genuine interest in the subject, are the prime requisites of any true nature watcher.
How to Find Animals
Animal Signs:
 | Tracks, chewings, scat, homes or dens, feeding
signs; |
| Scent, sound and sight |
Knowledge of Haunts
| Learn where various
animals are to be found. |
| Go to the likely places, not once but many times. |
Keeping Still
| Patience and care are needed. |
| Choose a good seat for your
vantage point near a likely place and wait. |
| Do not sit or stay in a strained position when the animal arrives. |
What to Look For
Watch and see what the animal is doing:
| How and what does it eat? |
| Does it run, jump,
walk or climb? |
| Is it nervous or calm? |
| What is it doing most of the time? |
| Does he go far from his home? |
Do not be afraid to try experiments.
Test the animal under different conditions and visit it as many times as is possible.
Don't Take Too Much for Granted!
| Believe your own eyes rather than
the other guy's mouth. |
| Your own observation is valuable. Stick to facts. |
(see also: Animal Tracks)
