Track and Sign: How Do You Find Animals in the Wild?

 1. Who Are You Tracking? 

The first step in tracking is knowing your target. Every species has unique habits, from the terrain they prefer to the times of day they’re most active. Some animals roam widely, while others stick to specific territories or routines. Understanding these patterns helps guides narrow down their search. 

For example, if you’re hoping to spot elephants on a sweltering afternoon, the best place to check is the nearest water source—like the Klaserie River, where they often gather to cool off. On the other hand, lions roaring at dawn are likely to be in open areas such as roads, airstrips, or sodic sites where their calls carry further. As the day heats up, they retreat to shady bushes to rest. 

2. Engage All Your Senses 

Tracking isn’t just about what you see—it’s about what you smell, hear, and even feel. Did you know leopard urine smells like popcorn? Both male and female leopards mark their territory with regular sprays, and that unmistakable whiff could mean one is close by. Similarly, fresh dung or scat often carries a distinct aroma that signals recent activity. 

Sound is another invaluable tool. Beyond the obvious calls of lions roaring or elephants trumpeting, there are subtler bush cues: - Cracking branches might mean elephants are feeding nearby. 
- The “chrrrr” of an oxpecker could indicate the presence of buffalo or rhino. 
- Alarm calls from birds, squirrels, or impala often signal a predator’s presence. 

Listening to the bush is like tuning into nature’s radio. Each sound is a clue—if you know the language. 

3. Follow the Tracks and Signs 

Tracking wouldn’t be complete without footprints, or “spoor.” Fresh tracks in the dirt reveal a lot: the species, its direction, how recently it passed through, and even its speed. Other signs include: 
- Torn vegetation from elephants. 
- Flattened grass where buffalo herds have moved. 
- Fresh dung, urine, or even scratch marks on trees. 
- Vultures perched in trees—a telltale sign of a nearby carcass. 

Each clue adds a piece to the puzzle, helping guides paint a clearer picture of the animal’s movements. 

4. Trust Your Instincts 

Tracking is often called an art for a reason. While it’s grounded in knowledge and skill, the best trackers combine these with intuition. They piece together what they know about the animal, its behaviour, the terrain, and even the weather to anticipate its next move. 

It’s not something you learn in books—it’s developed through years in the bush, reading the subtle signs nature provides. The more time you spend out here, the more you’ll understand the flow of the wilderness. Tracking wildlife is a fascinating blend of observation, patience, and intuition. It’s about connecting with nature on a deeper level, understanding its rhythms, and appreciating the stories every footprint and sound tells. Next time you’re on safari, watch your guide in action—it might just give you a newfound respect for this ancient skill!