Sperry-Galligar Audubon Society
Field Trip Etiquette
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Perhaps the single most important phrase to remember,
when in the field, is ..."Do Not Disturb"! Try to consider yourself
as an invisible observer; leaving no trace of your passing. Model
your actions after a loving grand-parent gently lifting a new mother hen,
in order to allow a toddler grand-child an exciting - first ever - peek
at the newly hatched chicks. Observe - react to the experience -
and continue on your journey.
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Appreciate, and adopt, the respect that experienced naturalists
display when they step over, instead of "on", an insect in their path;
or when they gently examine a wildflower, without "picking it", and continue
on their way. Consider natural areas the home of many things,
and that you are a guest in that home.
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Instruct the uncultivated young and the unenlightened
adults, both verbally and through your actions, to respect nature.
Refrain from - carelessly dislodging rocks and logs that serve as homes
for insects and reptiles; destroying bird nests and pulling up wildflowers;
or trampling vegetation and stripping leaves from tree limbs. DO
NOT litter - remember you are a guest! Leave pets at home; they most
often find things to kill.
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Respect both private and public property. Consider
yourself as an appointed guardian, or protector of everything around you.
Because, whether you like it or not, that is precisely what you are.
How you deal with those responsibilities can and will impact society, and
its attitude towards nature and natural things.
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Regarding your personal well being - when planning a trip
into the field - consider the following: 1) wear proper clothing
for the anticipated weather conditions and terrain; 2) length of
time spent without food and water; and, 3) protection against the sun,
mosquitos, and ticks. You might consider: wearing layered clothing
in cold weather, and proper shoes to protect against water, mud, and thorns;
carrying some snack-food and water; and using mosquito/tick repellent.
DO NOT forget binoculars, field guide, and a note pad!
Remember that we expect to have fun; so..., don your friendliest personality
and consider everyone your friend.
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For more on ethics, click - "Code
of Birding Ethics" of the American Birding Association.
