Stalking Wildlife

[JW]

One of the best investments I made for finding mammals is a book on tracks, trails and signs. May set you back a few quid but a least you'll know what to expect to see. It'll save a lot of wasted hours.

Listening to birds will give you a good idea that something is in the area. To get an idea of what to listen for wait until a cat comes near your garden, the song birds will make very distinctive calls. They'll do the same for any other potential predator.

As a bit of an aside, a mate of mine who used to be in the Army said that they didn't wash for three days prior to any covert activity. I'm sure that I also read about a photographer who used to store his cam kit with dry leaves from the local woods. Don't know how effective that would be.

[deer boy]

Originally Posted by JW

One of the best investments I made for finding mammals is a book on tracks, trails and signs. May set you back a few quid but a least you'll know what to expect to see. It'll save a lot of wasted hours.

Why spend money when u can use Tracks and signs images needed.

[Royalist]

Thank you Muldonach, Deer Boy, JW and Screwfix1982 for your advice. It is all very useful and I shall follow it except where there is conflicting advice of course.
I have ordered the Hamlyn Pocket Guide to Animals Tracks, Trails and Signs from ebay, but will also keep a close eye on the Tracks & Signs, Images Wanted section.
Now I am off into the woods for a recce, but many hours after dawn.
Thanks to you all
Roy