The world of wildlife and nature tourism has many human stakeholders in various formats. I have already written an elaborate blog on the same a few years ago. One of the many key profiles amongst them is that of a Naturalist. Often confused with Nature Guide and local guide. Let us try and understand the key differences among them and understand how to identify them.
Local guide: He is a person who has vast knowledge of local flora and fauna. They are well aware of local topography and pugdundee, and water bodies. However, their knowledge is limited to the specific geography only.
Nature Guide: Expert Story teller and masters at creating a transformational experience for guests visiting the park. They are not only well versed with local flora and fauna but have wider understanding of wildlife,forest, topogrpahy, geography etc but also one stop solution to all queries of the guest.
Naturalist: Typically means someone with extremely strong knowledge of all forms of living beings present in that park. Generally qualified as Biologist these are people who will entertain guest with their knowlege of life-from going to minutest details.
Many parks and resorts have Naturalist and Nature Guides as an overlappping profile in India. The easiest way to identify naturalist/nature guide is with his tools.
The backpack typically contains tools and resources for observing, identifying, and documenting the natural world. Depending on the naturalist’s focus and the environment, other items like butterfly nets, plant presses, and specialised equipment may also be included. The essential tools are listed below:
- Field Guides: Books or pamphlets with information about plants, animals, insects, or other natural elements in the area.
- Journal and Pen/Pencil: For recording observations, sketches, and notes about what is seen.
- Binoculars: To see distant wildlife or details not easily visible with the naked eye.
- Camera: For documenting findings and capturing images for later identification or study.
- Containers: Small containers like plastic bags, jars, or film canisters for collecting small specimens (e.g., insects, leaves).
- Magnifying Glass/Loop: To examine small details of plants, insects, or other natural objects.
- Pocket Knife: A multi-tool can be useful for various tasks, from cutting small branches to preparing specimens.
- Tweezers: Useful for handling delicate specimens or removing splinters.
- Portable torch/lights: To be used in low light
- First Aid Kit: A basic kit to handle minor injuries or illnesses encountered in the field.
- Portable Plant Press: For pressing and preserving plant specimens.
- Butterfly Net: For catching and observing insects.
- Bandana: Can be used for first aid, signaling, or as a makeshift sling.
- Measuring Tape: For measuring plant heights or animal sizes.
- Compass and Map: If venturing into unfamiliar areas.
- Snacks and Water: To stay hydrated and fueled during the exploration.
- Hand Sanitizer: To maintain hygiene in the field.
- Emergency Blanket/Poncho/Windcheater: For unexpected weather changes.
- Dress: Trouser and shirt with jacket with multiple pockets
- Bamboo stick: Thick and solid, atleast 4 feet long for handling extreme situations of self defense.
So Next time you want to explore forest/nature in most apt manner, carry as many tools as possible.
How to use them, will write about that in next blog 🙂