Birding Ethics

Members of The Naturalists' Club of Broome County agree to the following rules of conduct while birding:
1. We agree to safeguard the welfare of birds and other wildlife:

  • Observe and photograph birds so as not to disturb them significantly.
  • Avoid chasing, repeatedly flushing, excessive use of squeakers, "pishing" and recordings, especially during nesting season.
  • Keep an appropriate distance from nesting birds to avoid disturbance and exposure to predators.
  • Birds, nests, or eggs will not be handled except for recognized research.
  • Sites of rare nesting birds should be divulged only to proper conservation authority.
2. We agree to not harm the environment:

  • Stay on existing trails to avoid damaging fragile habitat.
  • Leave all habitat as it was found or better
3. We agree to respect the rights of others:

  • Observe No "Trespassing" signs; ask permission to enter private lands.
  • Observe all laws and regulations governing roads and public areas.
  • Behave in a courteous manner that will generate goodwill for the birding community.
4. We will, when on organized walks or field trips, follow these guidelines:

  • Minimize unnecessary talk and noise to avoid disturbing birds so that they can be seen by all participants.
  • Follow the leaders' pace to allow special sightings to be shared by the entire group.
  • The presence of pet dogs is discouraged, no matter how well-behaved the animal.

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This document maintained by bcnatclub@gmail.com.
Material Copyright © 1998 Naturalists' Club of Broome County, Inc.