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1. Observe animals from a safe distance for us and for them:
* Use binoculars, spotting scopes and viewing blinds for a close view.
* Move slowly and quietly.
* Avoid nests and dens. Leave baby birds and other young animals where we find them.
* Learn to recognize and respect wildlife alarm signals.
* When an animal changes behavior as a result of our presence, we are too close.
2. Allow wild animals to forage for their natural foods:
* Put the safety and health of wildlife first by resisting that impulse
to offer a handout.
* Reserve feeding of wildlife to backyard birds.
3. Film and photograph wildlife responsibly:
* Use a telephoto lens from a viewing blind or a vehicle.
* Never chase, herd, flush or make deliberate noise that stresses wildlife.
* Leave plants, trees and other natural features as we found them.
* Encourage photo and film editors to adopt ethical standards that include lens size of published photos.
Depict wildlife as part of a natural environment and identify photos of captured wildlife.
4. Always be considerate.
* Ask permission to watch or photograph wildlife on private land.
* Observe all rules and regulations.
* Wait our turn to view or photograph animals when sharing a viewing area.
* Leave pets at home or in the car.
* Tread lightly, staying on trails and roads.
5. Return a gift to nature in all our actions.
* Consult our local wildlife agency for specific guidelines on ethical wildlife
watching, filming and photography.
* Participate in wildlife and habitat conservation.
* Help others to become responsible wildlife watchers.
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