Birding Ethics 101

1. Wildlife Comes First!

The birds’ welfare is the highest priority.
Disturbance can keep birds from their nests, leaving chicks hungry or enabling predators to take eggs or young.
If the bird is reacting to your presence, you’re too close. Back away and give it time to settle down.
Blend in with your surroundings- wear neutral-colored clothing and keep movements slow and steady .
Wear visible, bright clothing if birding during hunting season.
Do not approach nests, roosts, or display areas.
Birds, nests, or eggs must not be handled except for recognized research.
Photography: Refrain from using flash when photographing birds.

2. Respect Others & Practice Safety

Respect private property.
- Don’t point optics toward people or houses.
Never stop your vehicle in a traffic lane to view birds. Pull completely onto the shoulder to conduct short-term or long-term viewing.
Dress appropriately for the weather and terrain
Inform others of your plans in case you fail to return- carry a cell phone for emergencies (but keep it silenced while birding)
Try not to disrupt other birders’ activities or scare the birds they are watching.
Keep conversations minimal and voices soft.
Share the best views with other birders

3. Enjoy Your Birding Experience

Bird quietly, walk slowly this also helps when listening for bird calls.
Be patient, take the time to observe.
Patience is often rewarded.
Don’t be too concerned about finding that rare bird, or spotting more species than last month. Birding is meant to be informative, but also fun.

4. Support Conservation

Participate in conservation .projects to keep island habitats healthy.
Support protection of important bird habitat.
Carpool whenever possible. This is a great way to get to know new folks, swap birding stories, and share information.
Do not damage habitat (breaking branches, trampling vegetation).
Leave habitats in as good or better condition as we find them.
Stay on roads, trails, and paths where they exist.
Leave no trace- pack it in, pack it out.

More information about birds and ethical birding practices can be found using the links below:

Kachemak Bay Shorebird Festival