The Bird Watchers' Ethical Code
Author: Liz Canham
If you're not a professional bird watcher or tour guide then
there are a few things that you need to know before venturing
out to start your new hobby. Believe it or not, you can't just
do what you like, where you like and there is a strict code of
ethics, even for amateur bird watchers.
Right to Roam
In Britain nowadays, it would seem that the rights of many
landowners have been eroded and that ramblers can go wherever
they please. However, this isn't always the case and it is, in
any case, a common courtesy to seek the approval of the owner
before you go trampling all over this property. If the landowner
requests that you do not go through certain areas, then do
observe his wishes and likewise if he asks that you keep to the
edge of fields, etc. then do so. If, while bird watching on
private property, your target bird moves off into forbidden
territory, you'll just have to let him go. Don't think that
because you've seen a rare bird, the landowners wishes can be
ignored.
In addition, just treat the landowner's property as you would
wish your own to be treated; don't drop litter, don't be noisy
and use your common sense to guide you when bird watching on
private property: don't litter, don't make any noise and don't
do any damage.
Care for the Environment
When you pack your rucksack to go out bird watching, be sure to
include a plastic bag or two so that you can bring your rubbish
home with you. Never, never drop litter out in the countryside
(or anywhere else for that matter) irrespective of whether
others have done so before you; you don't have to follow their
bad example.
Care for the Birds
Never do anything which can have an adverse effect on the birds
themselves. They didn't ask for you to be watching them and they
have the right to carry on their lives undisturbed, so always
check with yourself whether anything you're doing could be
upsetting the birds.
Photographing Birds
Don't get too close to the birds when you're photographing
them, particularly if you're using a flash as this could be very
frightening for the birds and may interrupt their normal
routines. Use a camera with a zoom lens with a decent
magnification and if it's very large, you'll need a tripod too
to prevent camera shake.
Parking Your Car
When you go bird watching, remember that you may be gone for
some time so be thoughtful about where you park your vehicle.
Never block gates or paths or indeed, any form of entrance.
Your Mobile Phone
It's essential to take your mobile with you, in case of
accidents or incidents while out bird watching. In addition, the
owner of the land you're using may need to get hold of you but
do make sure that the 'phone is set to silent mode with the
vibrate feature on.
All the above just involve using a bit of common sense and
consideration for others as well as for the birds, so remember
this ethical code and enjoy your bird watching.
About The Author: Liz Canham is webmistress of
http://www.lizebiz.com/trk.php
Watching.
