A Guide to Ultimate Wildlife Watching
We’ve all had it happen. You look up from the trail just in time to see an animal dive out of sight – a swoop of wing, a flash of antler, a slap of a beaver’s tail. The truth is, most animals see and hear and smell us long before we catch their drift. Most wildlife will flee from human presence. Their instinct is to stay and fight or flee from us, called fight or flight, and both can rob them of precious energy. Fortunately, there are simple ways you can help blend into an animal’s surroundings. In return, you’ll be treated to a wildlife show that makes your heart pound and your senses hum. Are you an ethical birder? Find out. Review the American Birding Association’s Code of Birding Ethics.
Viewing Tips
Follow these tips from animal behaviorists to watch wildlife without startling them or sapping their energy. Be prepared with a camera and tripod, binoculars, or a spotting scope. Give animals distance, you are in their backyard now!