In the vast expanse of a sun-baked savanna, a story unfolds. It’s written not in words, but in subtle signs left behind by the wild inhabitants of these untamed places. This is the world of animal tracking, an ancient skill that goes beyond mere observation to become a profound teacher of life’s most valuable lessons.
ALSO SEE: Ways to beat the heat in the bush
Patience is a virtue of a tracker
The first and perhaps most crucial lesson animal tracking imparts is patience. In a world of instant gratification, tracking teaches us the value of slowing down. A skilled tracker might spend hours, even days, following the faintest of signs. This patience isn’t passive; it’s an active, alert state of being fully present in the moment. In life, as in tracking, our greatest rewards often come not from rushing forward, but from the willingness to wait, observe, and act with purpose when the time is right.
The small things matter
In tracking, the difference between success and failure can lie in the tiniest detail – a bent blade of grass, a displaced pebble, or a single hair caught on a thorn. This heightened awareness of minute details translates powerfully into daily life. It teaches us to notice the small gestures of kindness, the subtle shifts in a loved one’s mood, or the minor inefficiencies in our work that, when addressed, can lead to major improvements.
Everything is connected
A tracker doesn’t just look at footprints; they read the entire landscape. They consider the weather, the season, the behaviour of other animals, and the overall ecosystem. This holistic approach to observation reminds us that in life, context is everything. It encourages us to step back and see the bigger picture, understanding how our actions ripple out to affect the world around us.
The art of educated guessing
Animal tracking is rarely about certainty. It’s about making educated guesses based on available information. Trackers learn to be comfortable with uncertainty, to trust their instincts, and to adapt their theories as new information emerges. In a world where change is the only constant, this flexibility of mind is an invaluable life skill that teaches us to navigate uncertainty with confidence.
A respect for nature
Perhaps the most profound lesson from animal tracking is the deep respect it cultivates for the natural world. As trackers dive into the intricate dance of predator and prey, of survival and adaptation, they gain a visceral understanding of humanity’s place within, not above, nature. This perspective nurtures a sense of responsibility and stewardship that extends far beyond the tracking experience.
The journey is the destination
In tracking, as in life, the end goal – whether it’s sighting an elusive animal or achieving a personal ambition – is just part of the story. The real value lies in the journey itself. Every tracking expedition is an adventure in learning, growth, and self-discovery. It teaches us to find joy and meaning in the process, not just the outcome.
Animal tracking in SA
The next time you venture into the wilderness, take a moment to look down. The stories written in the soil beneath your feet might just lead you to a profound new understanding of your own life’s journey.
If you’re interested in signing up for an animal tracking course in South Africa, Tracker Academy is a great starting point – you will learn from one of the world’s greatest animal trackers, such as Renias Mhlongo – a master tracker from South Africa, who has spent decades honing his craft in the African bush.
Born in 1963 in the southern greater Kruger National Park, Mhlongo is one of the last people alive to be raised in the original traditions of a Shangaan hunter-gatherer. His upbringing, steeped in the ways of tending cattle, hunting, and gathering, has given him a unique connection to the land and its wildlife.
For 36 years, Mhlongo worked at Londolozi game reserve as a professional tracker, trainer, and evaluator. His expertise played a crucial role in habituating the now-famous leopards of Londolozi. In 2002, he was certified as a Senior Tracker, and by 2013, he had qualified as a CATHSSETA-accredited Lead Tracker (NQF4).
Mhlongo’s influence extends far beyond the borders of South Africa. He has conducted tracker training workshops across the globe, from Kenya and Botswana to Australia, Brazil, and North America. His teachings go beyond mere technical skills; Mhlongo has touched many with his gracious manner, sharing not just the art of tracking, but also the rich cultural heritage and indigenous knowledge of the African landscape.
ALSO SEE: Leopard bested by a daring squirrel
Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration, and guides. You can also tag us to be featured.
TikTok | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
