Nature Study for Writing and Journal Keeping

Nature study is basically taking notice and observing the world around you.

This observation can take place in your backyard , local area, or at a far away locale. The person who does this is called a naturalist or natural historian.

There are professionally trained naturalists but the amateur learns by self-directed experience, observing, taking workshops and reading. The college degree equivalent would be ecology.

Thoreau was an amateur naturalist. His method included taking walks, going on hikes, reading, experimenting and observing. And he had simple equipment. The most important being his journal.

The amateur naturalist often keeps field journals and may write natural history essays.

Keeping a journal is an excellent wayto connect with the world and simply to notice what is happening. An observation checklist will help sharpen your skills. Using a scientific method to keep journal calls attention to details that you may miss.

The traditional knowledge of indigenous people is far deeper and more comprehensive than anything western science has produced so far. And they gained this knowledge through direct experience, observation and passing knowledge to others.

The traditional knowledge is about making connections and understanding how humans fit in the circle of life. Following their methods, you can help develop a high level ofunderstanding of Earthways. This high level of understanding includesthe study of phenology.

The equipment to be a naturalist is simple. The most important equipment are your five senses (sight,smell, hearing, taste and touch). The second most important is a journal to keep records.

Depending on your interests the following equipment maybe helpful.

• binoculars

• hand lens

• field guides

• camera

• microscope

• and a field bag to carry it all in

Whatever the methods, it is important to practice good outdoor manners and birding ethics. ABA Bird Watching Ethics

So, if you are new to observing Earthways or know a thing or two, hopefully Connecting-with-Nature.net has something for you.

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