Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
1(a).
Support the protection of important bird habitat.
1(b).
To avoid stressing birds or exposing them to danger, exercise restraint and cau-
tion during observation, photography, sound recording, or filming.
Limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds, and never use such
methods in heavily birded areas, or for attracting any species that is Threatened, En-
dangered, or of Special Concern, or is rare in your local area.
Keep well back from nests and nesting colonies, roosts, display areas, and important
feeding sites. In such sensitive areas, if there is a need for extended observation, photo-
graphy, filming, or recording, try to use a blind or hide, and take advantage of natural
cover.
Use artificial light sparingly for filming or photography, especially for close-ups.
1(c).
Before advertising the presence of a rare bird, evaluate the potential for disturb-
ance to the bird, its surroundings, and other people in the area, and proceed only if access
canbecontrolled,disturbanceminimized, andpermissionhasbeenobtainedfromprivate
land-owners. Thesites ofrare nesting birdsshouldbedivulged onlytotheproperconser-
vation authorities.
1(d).
Stay on roads, trails, and paths where they exist; otherwise keep habitat disturb-
ance to a minimum.
2.
Respect the law, and the rights of others.
2(a).
Do not enter private property without the owner's explicit permission.
2(b).
Follow all laws, rules, and regulations governing use of roads and public areas,
both at home and abroad.
2(c).
Practice common courtesy in contacts with other people. Your exemplary beha-
vior will generate goodwill with birders and non-birders alike.
3.
Ensure that feeders, nest structures, and other artificial bird environments are safe.
3(a).
Keepdispensers,water,andfoodclean,andfreeofdecayordisease.Itisimport-
ant to feed birds continually during harsh weather.
3(b).
Maintain and clean nest structures regularly.
3(c).
Ifyouareattractingbirdstoanarea,ensurethebirdsarenotexposedtopredation
from cats and other domestic animals, or dangers posed by artificial hazards.
4.
Group birding, whether organized or impromptu, requires special care.
Each individual in the group, in addition to the obligations spelled out in Items #1 and
#2, has responsibilities as a Group Member.
4(a).
Respect the interests, rights, and skills of fellow birders, as well as people parti-
cipating in other legitimate outdoor activities. Freely share your knowledge and experi-
ence, except where code 1(c) applies. Be especially helpful to beginning birders.
