Nature observation is inspiring, unpredictable, frustrating, but ultimately rewarding.

You can enhance your nature observation experience and even improve your ability to spot wildlife by mastering a few techniques. When preparing for a hike or camping trip, take a few moments to practice these simple skills and you will be amazed at the value it adds to your outdoor experience.

I’m back inside until this nor’easter passes.

Two days ago I saw bear scat right near a spot I call “Halfway Boulder.” I also saw fresh coyote scat further along the trail. In both cases the animals were crossing the trail and continuing into the woods. I could see the trails under the blueberry and huckleberry bushes now in full bloom. Today, less than one-tenth of a mile away from the first bear scat I find fresh bear scat.

I’d planned to hike to the lake and write, breakfasting on fresh shadbush berries, but the nor’easter arrived sooner than predicted. I’m glad I got a look at the scat before the rain washes it all away.

It’s a perfect day to catch up on my reading and add titles to my ever-growing book list and student book list.

I started out a daybreak intending to move quietly and slowly improving my awareness skills, but just like on the old Mickey Mouse TV show, today was “anything can happen day.”

I know better than to bushwhack through a swamp in late spring, but this was a cool, overcast day. I had my survival basics and I’d hiked the area several times in autumn, winter and early spring.

Clusters of umbrella-shaped mountain laurel flowers in all shades of pink highlight the deep green woods. Tiny yellow star flowers pop open on the trail.

The air smells alive. Years ago I learned that moistening my nostrils will improve my ability to smell the air. There is a light rain and I am ready to move after two rainy days indoors. Sweet fern is one of my favorite scents. I breathe deeply. I gather and dry leaves for tea. I may even make a woods clothing box and line it with sweet fern.

I’m not casting a shadow and there’s virtually no wind. I can identify bird songs, but still can’t match the song to the bird.

I love finding a wild turkey feather or a blue jay feather while hiking.

The feather is an amazing piece of nature technology. Take a close look. If you cannot find a feather, purchase one in a craft supply store.

I’ve been out at the lake before sunrise for the last several days.

The calendar may say it’s spring, but the heat and humidity say it’s summer.