Wildlife viewers should watch wildlife without bothering or interfering with their normal activities. This provides a satisfactory viewing experience for the watcher without causing undue harm or stress to the animal.
The welfare of the animal should always come first, so consider these guidelines before you head out to catch a glimpse of Arizona’s natural treasures.
- View animals from an appropriate distance.
- Stay clear of nests, dens, or other areas that are vulnerable to human disturbance.
- Limit your stay.
- Avoid surprising wildlife, which can be dangerous.
- Stay in small groups to cause fewer disturbances.
- Don’t feed wildlife! Feeding wildlife is illegal in many Arizona counties.
Respect Wildlife Habitat
- Stay on the trail.
- Use restrooms.
- Don’t litter, and leave the habitat in better condition than you found it.
Respect Other Viewers and Property
- Respect the rights of others while in the field.
- Respect the rights of landowners.
- Spread the word about good wildlife watching behavior.
Respect the WILD in Wildlife
- Remember that these are wild animals that could potentially be dangerous.
- Don’t approach or surround any animal, as it may feel threatened.
- Learn how to act around predators and other potentially dangerous animals.
While you are out in the field, watch for these behavioral cues to know when your presence is interfering with an animal’s normal activities.
Signs of fear or disturbance
- The animal will walk or run away from the area.
- They will raise their head and look at the disturbance.
- They will suddenly get up from resting.
- Look at you with their ears pointed your way.
- Stomp their feet in a mock charge.
- Sound off with a whistle or snort.
- Circle repeatedly.
- Dive at intruders.
- Pump or bob their head.