GETTING TO KNOW THE WILDERNESS

In order for one to successfully immerse in the natural environment, there must be a complete understanding of what is to be faced. Things like weather conditions, the danger zone, and the like should be determined. These are essential in deciding the next course of action.

Predicting the Weather

Clouds determine the mood of the sky – each class relates to a certain weather condition. There are three main types: stratus, cirrus and cumulus. In certain cases, clouds may manifest two classes at one time.

Cirrus clouds appear striated and are typically 6,000 m high. Cirrostratus clouds are darker and more uniform in appearance. Cirrocumulus clouds are small, spherical, ivory-tinted clouds present at high altitudes. In normal conditions, these are signs of fair weather. However, in more arctic regions, ever accumulating cirrus clouds joined with moderate to strong winds may indicate that a blizzard is approaching.

Cumulus clouds are white and look like flat-bottomed clumps of cotton balls. They are slightly closer to the earth than cirrus clouds and often emerge during noontime when it’s sunny. They also indicate fair weather. But as they grow bigger and move higher up, they may transform into cumulonimbus clouds, which usually come in the shape of an anvil. This can point out an oncoming thunderstorm.

Stratus clouds are relatively close to the ground. They appear gray and can mean that it’s about to rain. Nimbus clouds also indicate rain.

They have an even gray color and spread throughout the sky.

Scuds are loose, hazy, and featherlike in appearance. They usually appear on a windy day and can indicate continuing bad weather.

Practicing bushcraft is not easy, especially for those living in the suburbs. It requires proper mental conditioning and a physically fit body. Without these, there would be culture shock and, consequently, unnecessary stress.

In bushcraft, the most important piece of equipment one must bring is knowledge. Material things are only props and can be totally crafted from nature. As a matter of fact, it is possible to live in the wilderness with no premade tools or paraphernalia whatsoever, but this is not recommended. The difficulty level for this scenario would certainly be high and it is only accomplishable by masters of bushcraft.

The Red Zone

The red zone refers to unsafe areas which are to be avoided at all costs. In determining such, look out for caves or holes or any type of habitat of large and burly animals. When an area is filled with bones and carcasses, there is bound to be a carnivorous animal nearby. Also, stay away from wide, open areas as they do not provide good camouflage and may make the group vulnerable to predators.

It also helps to be aware of different animal habitats. Sometimes, it is inevitable to settle down in areas where some predators reside. But knowing which type of animal resides in the area aids in developing precautionary measures.

Bears usually reside in forested areas with abundant understory vegetation that is surrounded by nut and fruit bearing plants.

Snakes can live in just about any area, be it a dessert, marshland or in the ocean. However, they prefer to stay in warm places as they cannot produce their own body heat. They usually hide in tall blades of grass or in trees.

Alligators and crocodiles live in wetlands such as marshes or swamps. Some stay in holes by these areas to conceal themselves.

Wolves move in packs and usually live in large areas such as mountains, forests, and even arctic areas. Look for possible areas of denning such as caves.





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