Getting Started - Tools of the Trade

Bird and Wildlife Ethics

"When you watch wildlife without causing a reaction, you are seeing what is truly wild." - Mark Duda
  1. Never disturb a nest, den, or other nursery area.
  2. Observe from a distance. Get a "closeup" look by using binoculars, scopes, and telephoto lenses on cameras.
  3. Do not interfere with activity of the species being observed.
  4. Practice principles of "leave no trace":
    • Carry out what you carry in
    • Avoid picking and destruction of vegetation
    • Don't handle wildlife or birds
    • Leave what you find
    • Stay on designated wildlife trails
  5. Respect private property.
  6. Give birds and other wildlife enough space, and learn and respect the patterns and routines of their behavior .
  7. Respect the space of other observers.
  8. Be aware of the cumulative effect of a human presence; you are one of many other observers.
  9. Avoid feeding, baiting, or using calls and lures to attract wildlife. (Does not apply to bird feeders.)
  10. Federal law prohibits the collection of bird nests or feathers unless you hold a collectors' permit.
  11. Share your experiences with others.
  12. Be aware of your own abilities, and act within those limits.
  13. Know the rules and regulations of the area you are visiting.

Learn the warning signs that a bird or animal feels threatened.

  1. Bird or wildlife walks, runs, or flies away.
  2. Bird or wildlife threatens, dives or circles.
  3. Bird or wildlife stops behavior/freezes.
  4. Bird or animal exhibits nervous behavior such as: acts jumpy, raises ears or lays back ears, or looks towards you. Some birds may raise their crest or flare their wings when facing a threat.
  5. Bird or wildlife changes direction of travel.
  6. Bird or wildlife vocalizes (snorting, hissing, beak popping, etc.).
  7. Bird exhibits a broken wing display.
  8. If you suspect that you are threatening an animal, step back or leave the area.