Identifying Sounds Out in the Field: Stop and Listen!

During my morning coffee / SLLS halt I was focusing on all of the different sounds that I could hear during a light rain shower.

Being able to identify different sounds out in the field is an often underrated and forgotten skill set.

In a survival or field environment, the ability to identify different sounds can be a life saving skill.

This morning, I tried to count the different sounds by type.

Here are some of the distinct sounds heard from this morning's SLLS halt:

1. Rain and dripping water

2. A variety of birds (more than 5 types)

3. Vehicles in the distance

4. A car door closing

5. Adult and children's voices

6. Aircraft flying overhead (fixed wing)

7. Crickets / insects

8. A nearby vehicle starting

9. The backup beep of a truck

10. A squirrel climbing up a tree

11. A woodpecker tapping on a tree

12. Music playing in a car nearby

There are probably several more that I missed. But you get the idea.

Even though it was raining, during morning time, in a quiet neighborhood, there was still a lot going on.

Out in the field, in a tactical or survival scenario, hearing a branch snap, or the bushes rustle, could mean big trouble, or maybe it's your next meal.

There are distinct differences between a combat boot crunching deadfall and an animal moving through the bush.

It's obviously even more important at night, during low visibility conditions. 

Most people are complacent, take everything for granted, and do not pay attention to little details. 

If you venture outdoors, spend a few, quiet, still minutes in that environment, and acquaint yourself to the sounds. 

One day, it could be very important.

Eric Dempsey

Master Sergeant, US Army Retired

Evade and Survive Tactical Training and Equipment