Be a Better Birder

Seven things every nature lover should know.

- By Kenn and Kimberly Kaufman

The best thing about birding is that it can mean different things for different people. Some like to enjoy birds in their own backyard or at a local park, while others travel the world in search of avian delights. Many enthusiasts leave their binoculars at home and primarily pursue birds with cameras instead.

No matter your approach, understanding birding etiquette and obeying the law are common threads that unite us in our hobby and experience. Here are seven of the most important things to remember to protect yourself and birds.

1 It may be exciting to watch birds in a new place, but it’s never acceptable to trespass on someone’s private property. Always err on the side of caution if you have any doubt at all, and when you contact a landowner or homeowner to ask permission to visit a closed area, do so with the utmost respect and consideration.