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