Scent, Track & Survival - Synergy?

[Mac Callum]

Are there synergies between 'sight' tracking and Scent tracking?

None are mentioned in the RAW, but it seems strange that a character wouldn't get them. Logically there would seem to be a feed-back loop between the character's eyes and nose, one leading the other.

As I read the RAW, it would seem that the DM would have to calculate two DC's for every check - the Scent DC (Base 10 + modifiers) and the Sight DC (Base 5~20, depending on ground + modifiers), and then the character would get two roles. If he beats either one he succesfully tracks his quarry. This would have to be repeated every mile and (for scent) every time the trail crosses another trail.

Although there's nothing technically wrong with the above, it seems awkward, and extra work for the DM. Any thoughts?

 

[Patryn of Elvenshae]

Nope - that's pretty much it.

Note that most creatures with the Scent ability also get a fairly hefty bonus to Survival rolls when tracking by scent. In many cases, this can result in auto-success with scent-based tracking, obviating the need for any rolls at all.

 

[Mac Callum]

Note that most creatures with the Scent ability also get a fairly hefty bonus to Survival rolls when tracking by scent.

Yeah, but my PC doesn't ...

Oh well. I guess that's the DM's problem, not mine. If he wants to do it differently, I guess he'll let me know.

Thanks.