What is Animal Stalking?

There are two main types of animal stalking. The first is the act of following an animal during a hunt until an effective shot can be taken or the animal is in a position where the hunter can attack, using whatever method he is hunting with. The second is when an animal follows a person for the same reason. This is most common with crocodiles and alligators or with large cat breeds like tigers or mountain lions. They will follow a person until there is an opportunity to attack, such as a well-placed ledge they can jump down from, or a deep and muddy section of water the prey would be slowed down in.

Animal Stalking in Hunting

Stalking an animal while hunting is an ancient and widely practiced technique used to close the distance between a hunter and their prey. Unlike still hunting, which involves remaining in one place and waiting for an animal to come into range, stalking is an active pursuit that requires skill, patience, and knowledge of animal behavior.

The Process of Stalking While Hunting

Hunting stalks can last anywhere from a few minutes to several hours, depending on factors such as the terrain, the prey’s movement patterns, and the hunter’s ability to remain undetected. Stalking generally follows these key steps:

Identifying the Target: The first step in a successful stalk is spotting the animal from a distance. Hunters often use binoculars or spotting scopes to locate their prey before making a plan to approach.

Assessing Wind and Terrain: Since animals have keen senses, particularly smell and hearing, hunters must account for wind direction and use natural features such as ridges, trees, and bushes for cover.

Moving Stealthily: Slow, deliberate movements are crucial. Hunters often take measured steps, avoid stepping on twigs or dry leaves, and use the natural soundscape to mask their noise.

Closing the Distance: Depending on the weapon used (rifle, bow, or spear), hunters must get within an effective range. For archers, this could be as close as 20-40 yards, while rifle hunters may have a larger range.

Making the Shot: Once within range, the hunter must take an ethical shot, ensuring a clean and humane kill. A poorly placed shot can lead to a wounded animal, which is both inhumane and difficult to track.

Challenges and Risks of Stalking While Hunting

Detection by the Prey: Many animals have exceptional senses. Deer, for instance, can detect movement from a long distance, and predators like wolves can pick up the scent of a human from miles away.

Environmental Conditions: Rough terrain, sudden weather changes, and dense vegetation can make stalking difficult and physically demanding.

Predator Encounters: While stalking prey, hunters may unknowingly enter the territory of dangerous predators such as bears, mountain lions, or wolves.

When Animals Stalk Humans

The other side of animal stalking occurs when an animal follows a person with the intent to attack. This typically happens in predator-prey scenarios, where a large carnivore perceives a human as potential food or a threat.

Which Animals Might Stalk Humans?

Big Cats (Lions, Mountain Lions, Leopards): These animals are ambush predators that rely on stealth before attacking. If one is seen following a person, it may be preparing for an attack.

Bears (Grizzly and Polar Bears): While black bears often avoid humans, grizzly and polar bears have been known to stalk people, especially if they are hungry or feel their territory is being encroached upon.

Wolves: While rare, wolves may stalk humans if they see them as weak, injured, or isolated.

Crocodiles: In regions where crocodiles live, they may stalk humans near water sources before striking suddenly.

Signs That an Animal is Stalking You

Repeated Sightings: If you keep seeing the same animal at a distance, it may be tracking you.

Silent Following: Predators like mountain lions are experts at moving silently. If you hear something behind you but cannot see it, proceed with caution.

Unusual Interest: Animals that show excessive curiosity, rather than fleeing at your presence, might be sizing you up as prey.

Sudden Disappearance: If a predator you’ve seen suddenly vanishes, it could mean it is circling around for an ambush.

What to Do If You Are Being Stalked

Do Not Run: Running can trigger a predator’s chase instinct, making an attack more likely.

Maintain Eye Contact: If facing a big cat, do not turn your back. Keeping eye contact can deter an attack.

Make Yourself Look Bigger: Raise your arms, open your jacket, and stand tall to appear larger.

Make Noise: Shouting, clapping, and using objects like sticks or rocks to make noise can intimidate the animal.

Back Away Slowly: Do not make sudden movements. Back away while maintaining your defensive posture.

Use a Weapon or Deterrent: If armed, be ready to use your weapon as a last resort. Bear spray is highly effective against large predators.

Animal stalking is a fascinating yet potentially dangerous aspect of the natural world. Whether stalking prey during a hunt or finding yourself the target of a predator, understanding the dynamics of stalking behavior is crucial. For hunters, mastering stealth, patience, and animal behavior leads to successful and ethical hunting. For those encountering a stalking predator, staying calm, making oneself appear dominant, and knowing when to use deterrents can be lifesaving.