Birders have a hard-earned reputation for respecting wildlife and the environment as well as other people. In many ways, our behavior is the key to ensuring continued access to birding sites for all birders in years to come. Let's all be responsible and considerate birders and conduct ourselves in ways that will reflect well on our hobby. Here are some guidelines that will increase everyone's birding enjoyment and help our feathered friends at the same time.

	Refrain from making loud noises or quick movements when birding.
	Avoid disrupting birds, especially during breeding season. Exercise restraint in photography and the use of tape recordings or other activities intended to flush birds from cover.
	Birds always come first, birders second.
	Respect private property. Obtain permission before walking or driving onto private land.
	Leave nothing but footprints.....take nothing but memories and field notes.

For a comprehensive, detailed list of guidelines, read the American Birding Association's Code of Birding Ethics.

Last updated 3/29/01