The Naturalist’s Art of Animal Encounters

4 snips

Mar 29, 2023

In this engaging conversation, outdoor educator Dave Hall shares his expertise from his book, "The Naturalist's Companion." He offers tips on observing wildlife ethically, emphasizing patience and self-awareness. Discover the 'fox walk' technique for a stealthy approach and learn about the ideal times and places to encounter animals—even in urban settings. Dave introduces 'spontaneous acceptance,' a mindset for enjoying nature, along with the concept of 'wide angle vision' to enhance your animal-spotting skills. Get ready to embrace the wild!

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ADVICE

Wildlife Safety

Respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance and avoiding startling them.
Recognize potential dangers from large herbivores and predators.

ANECDOTE

Bison Encounter

Dave Hall shares a near-death experience with bison in Custer State Park.
This instilled a healthy respect for animal power and unpredictability.

ADVICE

Ethical Wildlife Observation

Consider your intentions and the impact on animals, minimizing stress and harm.
Be mindful of your presence and avoid disturbing natural behaviors.

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Tom Brown’s Field Guide to Nature Observation and Tracking

Tom Brown

The Naturalist's Companion

Dave Hall

The Naturalist's Companion provides practical guidance on achieving deeper nature observation. It teaches principles and ethics of stealth walking, calling, tracking, and interpreting animal behavior. The book includes exercises to help readers apply these skills and deepen their connection with the outdoors.

Beaversprite

Dorothy Richards

In 'Beaversprite: My Years Building an Animal Sanctuary,' Dorothy Richards shares her journey of establishing a sanctuary for beavers in New York. The book details her experiences with these intelligent creatures, her efforts to educate others about conservation, and the transformation of her property into a thriving ecosystem. Richards' work not only contributed to the recovery of beaver populations but also inspired a broader appreciation for wildlife conservation.

Touching the wild

Joe Hutto

In 'Touching the Wild', Joe Hutto shares his extraordinary experience of living with a herd of mule deer in the Wind River Mountains of Wyoming. Over seven years, he gained their trust and became part of their family, observing their behaviors and forming deep bonds. The book is a companion to the PBS documentary of the same name and explores themes of connection, identity, and the shared experiences of grief and joy between humans and animals.

What the Robin Knows

Jon Young

In 'What the Robin Knows', Jon Young explores how birds can teach us about our environment by understanding their vocalizations and behaviors. The book combines indigenous knowledge with modern research to help readers connect more deeply with the natural world. By tuning into bird language, readers can gain insights into their surroundings and foster a greater appreciation for wildlife.

Tracking and the Art of Seeing

How to Read Animal Tracks and Sign

Paul Rezendes

This book provides detailed information on over 50 animal species, including their tracks, tail patterns, droppings, dens, and other signs. It is not only a field guide but also a reflection on the interconnectedness of life and the natural world. Illustrated with hundreds of photographs, it serves as a tool for both beginners and experienced trackers to deepen their understanding of wildlife and their environments.

The Naturalist’s Art of Animal Encounters

Wildlife Safety

Bison Encounter

Ethical Wildlife Observation

Resources Related to the Podcast

Connect With Dave Hall