In this sixth episode of my tracking series I had the privilege to sit down and talk about bird language and animism with tracking author, instructor, and podcaster Filip Tkaczyk. Fil teaches us the intricacies of bird language, sharing foundational principles, stories, and examples of how we can tap into, and become a part of the communications of nature. The following topics, and more, are discussed:

-The art of bird language, what it is, how it works, and how we can learn the secrets of the landscape using it.

-The specifics of bird vocalizations and what they mean.

-How bird language fits into the art of tracking.

-A few stories from Fil and I about our experiences with bird language and interpreting the mechanics of what birds are saying with their vocalizations and behavior within those stories.

-Animism as it relates to communications in the natural world.

-The practice of interspecies honoring (species giving space to one another) and how we can practice honoring with other animals as a part of being in relationship with nature.

-The concept of reciprocity with the land as all species give and take and how this relates to humanity’s current state of relationship with the land.

-How to begin learning bird language and building reciprocity-based relationships with the natural world.

Connect with Fil:

[email protected]

Animism: Listening to the Land Podcast on Apple

Animism: Listening to the Land Podcast Facebook Page

Animism: Listening to the Land Podcast Instagram Page

Book Recommendations:

Track and Sign of Reptiles and Amphibians of North America by: Filip Tkaczyk

What the Robin Knows: How Birds Reveal the Secrets of the Natural World, by: Jon Young

Becoming Animal: An Earthly Cosmology, by: David Abrams

Braiding Sweetgrass: Indigenous Wisdom, Scientific Knowledge and the Teachings of Plants, by: Robin Wall Kimmerer

Media Recommendations:

Merlin Bird ID App