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Tracking: signs Of Man, Signs Of Hope : A Systematic Approach to The Art And Science Of Tracking Humans

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New light on an ancient art!

Tracker. The very word forms images of buckskin-clad braves crouching over the ground, carefully studying the signs before them--a part of history. But the modern world has not put behind it the need for the earthy business of tracking. Far from it. Such skills are still routinely used by the military, rescue personnel, and law enforcement, as well as by hunters and people living at the subsistence level throughout the world. SIGNS OF HOPE is the ultimate, authoritative guide to this most complex pursuit.

A great resource for professionals, including rescue and law enforcement, and even military personnel, Signs of Hope is also useful for outdoors people. Users will find it invaluable as an on-site manual in the course of any search.

Chapters cover topics such .
--Visual tracking, auditory tracking, scent tracking, and tactile tracking.
--Footprints, disturbances, wind speed, other humans and animals, terrain, and climate.
--Human and animal excrement, forensics, decomposition, and skeletonization.
--Preserving the area, blood trailing, speed of movement, number of people, weapons, and the tracker’s report.
--Track searching procedures, formations, action drills, and booby traps.
--And more.

Unlike many tracking manuals, Signs of Hope focuses on tracking humans, be they enemy combatants or lost children. With careful attention to the details that make the expert tracker, Diaz and McCann explain what it takes to be a tracker, from physical stamina to focus and perception. They explain the tools of the tracker, make suggestions about survival gear for extended searches, and present safety tips. Signs of Hope will be an invaluable addition to any library, and could be a lifesaver.

242 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 2005

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About the author

David Díaz

4 books1 follower

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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
Profile Image for Sudhagar.
329 reviews2 followers
September 10, 2023
A rare type of book in the art and science of tracking and the author is the real deal as he has been extensively trained by the best trackers around the world. The author was also a Special Forces soldier and had practiced the skill in war zones.

The book is slim but packed with very useful facts on tracking. I like the way the book was presented and we can see how these skills can be applied in real world situation (one very good example is given).

Note of caution. The art of tracking can't be mastered via books but need to be practiced in real world guided by experienced trackers. Book can give the big picture of tracking, which nevertheless is interesting.

Another interesting aspect of the book is how the author has managed to convey the skills in a methodical and scientific manner rather than some mystical way. He also uses science to help him to be a better tracker.

If you want to have some understanding of the tracking skills, this is a great starting place.
Profile Image for Royce Ratterman.
Author 13 books25 followers
October 28, 2019
Most books are rated related to their usefulness and contributions to my research.
Overall, a good book for the researcher and enthusiast.
Read for personal research
- found this book's contents helpful and inspiring - number rating relates to the book's contribution to my needs.
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