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Written by Jacques van Zyl
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Saturday, 30 August 2008 12:04 |
All Birders are expected to follow Birdlife South Africa's code of conduct. This code is as follows-
- Birders must always act in ways that do not endanger the welfare of birds or other wildlife. In keeping with this principle we will:
- Observe and photograph birds without knowingly disturbing them in any significant way.
- Avoid chasing and repeatedly flushing birds.
- Only sparingly use recordings and similar methods of attracting birds and not use these methods in heavily birded areas or during breeding season.
- Keep an appropriate distance from nests and nesting colonies so as not to disturb them or expose them to danger.
- Refrain from handling birds or eggs unless engaged in recognized research activities.
- Birders must always act in ways that do not harm the natural environment. In keeping with this principle we will:
- Stay on existing roads, trails and pathways whenever possible to avoid trampling or otherwise disturbing fragile habitat.
- Leave all habitat as we found it.
- Birders must always respect the rights of others. In keeping with this principle we will:
- Respect the privacy and property of others by observing "No trespassing" signs, and by asking permission to enter private or posted lands.
- Practice common courtesy in our contacts with others. For example, we will limit our requests for information, and we will make them at reasonable hours of the day.
- Always behave in a manner that will enhance the image of the birding community in the eyes of the public.
- Birders in groups should assume special responsibilities. As group members we will:
- Take special care to alleviate the problems and disturbances that are multiplied when more people are present.
- Act in consideration of the group's interest, as well as our own.
- Support, by our actions, the responsibility of the group leader (s) for the conduct of the group.
- As group leaders we will:
- Assume responsibility for the conduct of the group.
- Learn and inform the group of any special rules, regulations or conduct applicable to the area or habitat being visited.
- Limit groups to a size that does not threaten the environment or the peace and tranquility of others.
- Teach others birding ethics by our words and example.
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