A Few Simple Steps when Observing Nature

Wildlife It is important whenever you are in a nature setting to remember the wildlife who inhabits the area, and their adaptations.

In the woods of Vermont for example;

Deer have better hearing, eye sight, and smell than humans. They are also adapted to blend into their surroundings so as to hide from predators. Deer can also move through the woods without making the slightest sound.

Or the Marsh;

Animals that live in the water are used to the steady and calm natural patters of water and tall grass.

The Woods

When entering the woods with the intention to see the animals that naturally inhabit the area, you must adapt to your surroundings and outsmart the wildlife.

Smell- It is not wise to wear clothes that have been washed in strong detergents, or have been drenched in perfumes. Do not wear scented deodorant, or hair products that will stand out from the natural smells of the woods, to the heightened senses of animals.

Some hunters, and serious nature enthusiasts, will buy de-scenting body wash/shampoo and detergent for the clothes intended to wear outdoors. This is an option, though hiding your smell can be avoided in other ways.

Water- If the area has a flowing water source, for example a mountain stream, this is the best way to hide not only your scent but also muffle your sound. It is best to enter the woods walking upstream, because water creates air currents, and walking against the current ensures that your smell is always ‘downstream’ of where you’re heading. Water is also a natural sound that animals cannot predict and must be accustomed to, so walking into the woods within the water does not create any sounds that an animal will associate with a predator.

The Woods Sound- Besides concealing your sound in running water, you

should also keep in mind your voice. Human voice is something that animals in nature scarcely hear, so when entering nature of any kind, it is wise to never speak, and keep coughing and sneezing to a minimum. Humans also move much faster than animals, so to keep your sound consistent with nature, one must slow down from a normal pace.

Sight- Slowing down also leads us to concealing yourself from the heightened eye sight of animals. Deer, for example have an eyesight of 310 degrees, so blending in and not moving suddenly are important things to keep in mind. On a sunny day, it can be helpful to keep your shadow in mind. Often just sitting still is the best way to see wildlife in their natural habitat.