Birding Etiquette question

[Singletracklovr]

As a new photog to birding I am very excited about the upcoming nesting season in my area. What are some of the basic rules I should be aware of?

As always thanks for your time and expertise...

[Jaedon]

I am sure that depends on the species. Most of the areas around me are closed off during mating season to allow the birds their privacy and to keep nosey humans away form the scene.

If you can find a site near the edge of the breeding grounds and stay still I think that would be the best approach. Just my opinion though. Stick with the "Take only photographs, Leave only footprints" philosophy and I think you will do just fine.

[Martin Brazil]

Personally I tend to stay well clear of low laying nests. I don't want to risk interfering with the birds so tend to err on the side of caution. I'm not saying that I wont shoot birds in their nests but I do it with my 300mm at full extension and keep my distance. Another thing you have to think about is not actually identifying nest sites especially if they are rare species as sadly there are still some sick individuals who go to great lengths to steal rare birds eggs.

[Canon_Bob]

Definitely no "perfect" answer to this one. Best advice I can give is always move slowly when working a bird. They are usually very good at letting you know when they are not comfortable with you. At that point, back off slowly and leave them be....especially if they're on a nest. Long glass is the best thing for this time of year.

[Singletracklovr]

Best of Luck Bob,

the direction of the light is one thing which is very important

Hi retouch, thanks for the tip.

I was hoping to get some advice on what not to do.
I have heard that approaching some birds during this time could interfere with mating or even drive them from their nesting site. Is this true?