Intro The Hatching of the Trail Sites Programs Etiquette Checklist
Do not endanger the welfare of birds and other wildlife
- Observe and photograph birds without disturbing them from their routine.
- Avoid chasing or repeatedly flushing birds. If you startle them, they may waste energy searching for a new "safe" area.
- Limit use of recordings and similar methods of attracting birds.
- Keep an appropriate distance from nests and nesting colonies. Do not "save" baby birds. Mama bird is usually watching from a safe distance.
- Do not handle birds or eggs.
Do not harm the environment
- Stay on existing roads, trails, and pathways whenever possible to avoid disturbing fragile habitats.
- Walk carefully to avoid snapping twigs or trampling wildflowers. The snapping noise may disturb the birds, and the wildflowers may be a food source for them.
- Leave all habitat as you found it.
Respect the rights of others
- Observe all laws, rules, and regulations.
- Observe "No Trespassing" signs and other posted rules on properties.
- Ask permission to enter any private property. Limit requests for permission or information to reasonable times of day.
- Leave gates and fences as you found them.
- Behave in a manner that will enhance the image of the birding community to others.