How to Identify Local Flora and Fauna

You don't have to be a biologist or botanist to identify flora and fauna species where you live. All it takes is an interest in nature and a keen eye. You'll be surprised at how much enjoyment you can glean from learning about the unique plant and animal species that can be found near you.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Field guide
• Binoculars

Learn to Identify Local Flora and Fauna

1. Select a field guide. 'A Guide to Field Guides: Identifying the Natural History of North America' by Diane Schmidt is a great resource for choosing your ideal book (see Resources below).
   
2. Grab your field guide and hit the trail. Direct, hands-on experience really is the only way to learn to identify local flora and fauna. You can look at pictures at home all day, but there is no substitute for actually seeing the real thing with your own eyes.
3. Respect the plants and animals you encounter. You must always use common sense and caution when interacting with nature. There is no reason to fear what you encounter, but you definitely need to respect it.
4. Leave no trace behind. Pack out all trash you take with you during your excursions and minimize your impact on the environment so those who follow can experience the same enjoyment.
5. Tell others where you're going and when you'll be back. Safety first is a good motto. In case of an emergency, it is critical that others know where to look for you.
6. Keep a journal of your experiences. In years to come, you can relive the excitement of discovery and identification again and again.
7. Share your passion. Take others along with you to encourage their own love of nature. Keep an online journal or post blogs detailing what you've learned and how much fun you've had doing it.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time. Many local plants and animals look similar, and some even purposefully mimic other species to fool predators. Look closely for those small differences that can make all the difference in the world.
• Exercise caution. Plants and animals have many natural defenses they can use to protect themselves, and you have to be careful to avoid potentially serious injuries.