Don't forget your Laser Pointer for pointing out hard to see objects in the distance or in the dark. Refresh this page to see more choices of laser pointers suitable for outdoor use from Amazon.com.

 Sound Amplification Devices

You can listen to the sounds of animals while you relax around the camp fire or while you are walking.

Choose the Impact Sport, an electronic earmuff which automatically shuts off loud impulse noise to a safe 82db while amplifying sound and normal conversation, and you cut off extremely loud sounds which might cause momentary loss of hearing. There is one single power and volume control knob allowing you to hear sounds near or far from you. Also has an AUX jack which connects to MP3 players and scanners.

Night Vision Binoculars

While these are quite expensive for the low budget researcher, at least one such device is essential in a research group. The ability to see in the dark might make you nearly the equal of night animals, like cats and probably Sasquatch. Remember not to look at bright objects, like a laser pointer or flashlight, while using this powerful device.

Two Way Radios

Two-way radios can be quite inexpensive, with the price increasing with durability and range. The FCC regulates the maximum power of the transmitter, but the receiver is subject to great advances in amplification technology. Generally, the more expensive sets will have the most advanced receiver technology. If the group is going to be split up, and widely separated, then the more expensive, longer range, radios are probably called for.

Casting Supplies

Airborne plaster and all other dusts are hazardous to breathe. The use of dust masks and eye protection (goggles) is important for your safety!

Safety Equipment - dust masks, eye goggles etc.

GPS Systems and Wrist Watches

Modern GPS systems are accurate to within about 10 feet, if enough satellites are visible from your position in the deep woods.

 Usually, you can count on two or three, even in the deepest parts of the Pacific Northwest rainforest, which should locate your position within 100 feet or so.

The Wristwatch version reduces the number of separate items you need to carry, and is less likely to be lost in case of accident. Some of them are even waterproof.

Voice Activated Recorders

Though many digital cameras and video cameras have voice recording capability, a separate voice-activated recorder will allow you to just leave it on while in camp or on stakeout at a remote site. Most will capture even the faintest sounds. Some of them in a range that you cannot hear. Often when there is action of some kind, you will not even notice the background sounds of the event. The voice recorder prevents missing this vital information, and after the fact can provide scientific analysis of the recorded event.

Digital Cameras, Video Cameras, and Field Microscopes

Cameras are important to document your research. Digital cameras are better for this purpose, rather than film cameras because of the special requirements to protect film, which can be ruined by mother nature. A digital camera is almost the one piece of equipment that you can't go without.  Many digital cameras can record short film clips, but you may want a dedicated video camera for longer recording. Consider stationary, infra-red activated, cameras for positioning in remote areas. The field microscope can allow examination of small items in the field.