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One of the reasons a preserve is so unique is that it gives visitors the chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat. The animals of Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve can sometimes be hard to find. But, if you know some of the tricks, your chances of spotting wildlife will definitely increase:
1. Be as quiet as possible. Animals are afraid of people and will hide or run away if they hear you approach.
2. Walk slowly. Slowing your pace automatically quiets your walk. Many more things will be visible to you because you won’t be rushing by.
3. Watch and listen for movement. Pay attention to movement – especially what you catch out of the corner of your eye. That big ripple in the water could be caused by an otter diving for dinner. Stand still and keep watching and listening patiently. Be aware of all of your senses.
Hint: Cup your hands to your ears to hear better and to determine the direction of the sound.
4. Keep your eyes and head moving in all directions. Most people are in the habit of looking at the ground when they walk. Consciously look up in the sky and trees, and into the bushes and grasses while on the trail. Pause occasionally to view your surroundings from a new angle.
5. Stand or sit still for a few minutes. The animals in the area will stop hiding and go back to what they were doing before you arrived once they think you’ve left. And, it’s exciting when you slowly discover all kinds of things that you didn’t at first see!
Hint: Close your eyes for a minute or two so you can relax and be absorbed into the background.
6. Take time to look at ordinary things. Focusing on simple items sharpens your observation skills…and may lead to new discoveries. Pausing to look at the graceful lines of a tree limb could direct your eyes to a hawk perched nearby. Or, while looking at a clump of wildflowers, you may find a turtle secretely laying eggs.
**And don't forget your binoculars!**
For further
information: "Field Guide to Tracking and Nature Observation"
and other books by Tom Brown Jr., or visit www.trackerschool.com.