Birdwatcher’s Code of Ethics: Play by the Rules If You Don’t Want to Get Netted by Authorities!
Image by Picture Taker 2 via Flickr
We’re assuming that you’re not a professional birdwatcher handling group tours and profiting from this very interesting activity because if so, you should already know the birdwatcher’s code of ethics by heart. Most probably, you’re a newbie at birdwatching. If so, there are a number of things you have to know about your newfound passion in order to avoid committing any unforgivable sin.
RESPECT THE RIGHTS OF LANDOWNERS
Always obtain permission first before bird watching on any privately owned property. You can do so either by letter or in person. If the landowner has certain stipulations when it comes to birdwatching activities, make sure that these stipulations are met; otherwise you risk a public confrontation with the authorities.
Use your common sense to guide you when bird watching on private property: don’t litter, don’t make any noise or cause damage to other people’s property.
KEEP THE ENVIRONMENT CLEAN
Always refrain from littering any site where you’re birdwatching. Also, even if the place is already unclean, there’s no need for you to make the problem worse by leaving your trash behind.
ALWAYS ASK YOURSELF THIS QUESTION: AM I DOING ANYTHING THAT HAS A NEGATIVE EFFECT ON
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