Tools for the Naturalist

A lightweight backpack is essential for any hike or field trip to carry all of the items listed.

Bring a reusable water bottle with you along with snacks, emergency whistle, bug spray and a light rain jacket. You never know when a hike can be extended due to unforeseen variables like weather or getting lost.

Always bring your personal identification card, medical cards, and emergency contacts written on a piece of paper. Perhaps the most important thing to do is if you’re on a solo hike, tell someone where you’ll be and when you expect to be back.

Binoculars are essential for spotting wildlife. Audubon has an excellent guide to finding the best ones for your outings!

An important tool for seeing up close all of nature’s wonder. Investigate which lens is right for you.

Practice your observation skills by recording everything you see when out in the field. The naturalist’s journal is a key essential.

There are many types of field guides available for each location, habitat or park you’re interesting in exploring from compact guides, laminated trifolds to extensively researched guides. Keep weight in mind when choosing what to bring along. Below are some resources for finding the right one for your treks.
University of Florida
FMNP