My skills center on finding and recognizing the tracks, traces, and behavioral sign of terrestrial mammals and birds in the northwest coast, northeastern forests, and inland northwestern forests.

I am particularly attuned to these topics:

• Movement and behavioral ecology, especially of wide-ranging animals

• Animal cognition and perception

• Scent marking, territoriality, and communication

• Predator—prey relationships

• Locomotion and biomechanics in terrestrial animals

I hold three Specialist certifications in track and sign interpretation from Tracker Certification North America, which is part of the current international standard for validating tracking skills in the field. I also hold a ‘Professional’ level in Trailing—another field test which evaluates competency in following trails in non-snow conditions and observing animals unnoticed. I study zoology and anthropology via a M.S. at Canisius University.

Navigating contemporary ecological and community challenges involves a robust and ongoing ‘memory archive’ of observations of place, land, and other animals. However, it’s important for many different kinds of people and many user groups to apply investigative reasoning and critical thinking skills to environmental and naturalist contexts. I strive to create a welcoming environment for anyone who wants to learn the various field skills associated with tracking a wide variety of animals in all-season conditions.

I’m always learning! In the meantime, I love sharing knowledge, skills, and woods time with other curious and passionate folks. I am available to take out small groups on snowshoe or foot (generally 2-4 people), smaller groups on snowmobile (1-3 people), or for one-on-one mentoring and custom courses at my discretion. Thanks so much for your interest!