PA Bird and Wildlife Tips
To accompany our interactive trail guide, this website can provide you with several helpful wildlife and birdwatching tips. These tips include information on wildlife and birdwatching on state gamelands, observing and identifying wildlife, hazards and caveats, and safety around water.
Wildlife Watching on State Gamelands
Many of the sites listed in the interactive trail guide are in State Gamelands which provide excellent opportunities for wildlife watching. They were created for the purpose of providing habitat for wildlife and hunting opportunities. Therefore, hunters are using these areas; please be respectful of their time. Also, please respect posted regulations and remember to wear 250 square inches of fluorescent orange on the head, chest, and back when visiting State Gamelands or other areas open to hunting during fall, winter, and spring hunting seasons. Some areas are off-limits to visitors year round or during the breeding season-please observe all "area closed" signs and respect the needs of all wildlife. The Pennsylvania Game commission has worked cooperatively with Audubon Pennsylvania in providing access to wildlife viewing area on State Gamelands.
Observing and Identifying Birds and Wildlife
This interactive trail guide directs you to locations in Pennsylvania that offer diverse habitats, significant or interesting bird and/or wildlife populations, or a unique species.
While on your birdwatching tour and observing wildlife, two simple guidelines will save hours of frustration-look in the right place and look at the right time (read more about the seasonality of birdwatching in PA). Pennsylvania has a diversity of wildlife species that can be observed. Use a list of common birds and mammals to learn about the species you hope to see — such as the habitat in which it would be found and the time of year or time of day you would expect to see it. Early morning is often the best time to birdwatch and view wildlife.
Here are some key birdwatching tips that will aid in the identification of wildlife being observed:
- Note the size of the species, particularly in relation to a standard. (For example if it is a bird, you might note if it were bigger or smaller than a robin.)
- Observe shapes (such as slender or chunky), bill shape, and shape of body parts.
- What is the appearance and coloration, and are there particular patterns that can be noted? For birds, observe the bill and feet, and note the flight pattern.
- What is the species doing and where is it found? Can you hear vocalizations? If so, note these.
When watching birds and wildlife on a group birdwatching tour, the face of the clock is often used as a reference point to guide group members. When facing forward, to the front of you would be 12 o'clock. To the right would be 3 o'clock, etc.
To use binoculars, first locate the object using the naked eye. Without moving your eyes from the object, bring the binoculars to your eye. If you can't find the object in your lens, locate a larger, recognizable object as a reference point and try again.
Hazards and Caveats
There are certain inherent dangers whenever you engage in outdoor activities that can be avoided with proper planning and precautions.
Pennsylvania is home to three types of venomous snakes, two species of rattlesnakes and the copperhead, but many people hike in the woods and never encounter one. Always check before putting your hands in cracks and crevices, and practice caution when scampering in rocky areas. If you do see a snake, leave it alone.
Learn to identify poison ivy, oak, and sumac. Wear light-colored clothing to increase your ability to spot ticks on you. Wear protection against the sun, such as lotion and a hat, to prevent sunburn.
The locations included in the interactive trail guide generally do not involve strenuous hikes, but know your limitations as many are isolated and out of range for cellular phone use. Carry a compass and map, and know how to use them if venturing into wild areas. Always inform a friend or family member of your itinerary.
Safety Around Water
Several of the sites included in the interactive trail guide are located near water or include access to a lake, pond, or river. When bird watching around water, use caution and common sense to avoid accidents. If boating, follow all Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission regulations and launch guidelines. Pennsylvania's rivers and streams flood after heavy rains, so be mindful of the surroundings and weather conditions. Water levels are available at the U.S. Geological Survey. Always communicate travel plans to family or friends, and be prepared for emergencies and water and weather conditions. Also, when birding from a boat launch, be mindful of other users.
The interactive trail guide includes only a selection of boat launches available along the Susquehanna River, those that are noted for their diversity of bird species. Other launches and lakes are available and can be found on the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commissions web site, where you can also learn more about Pennsylvania's water trails. Also visit the Susquehanna River Trail Association website to learn more about paddling opportunities along the river.
