Due to the risks associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, please use appropriate precautions when traveling in the PA Wilds and refer to the PA Department of Health for updates.
The following article was originally published on the Leave No Trace website.
While outdoor activities of every kind have surged in the wake of the pandemic, one, in particular, has seen an enormous increase – birding! In an eggshell birding or birdwatching is an activity that consists of finding and observing birds in their natural habitat. You can view them in your neighborhood, local park or on a national forest trail. It is a leisurely activity, in which you may stroll near a creek, grassland or other natural area and observe our feathered friends. No matter where you go or which bird you are searching for, practicing Leave No Trace on your birding trips will help protect the birds and views.
One item you don’t want to go birding without is binoculars or a ZOOM camera lens. Using these items will help keep plenty of space between you and the birds allowing you to not disturb them and to observe their natural behaviors. When birding in your neighborhood be mindful of where your lenses are pointing. If private property owners seem uncomfortable by your presence, it might be time to move on.
Birds are disturbed by loud or strange noises. Try keeping your noise levels low by splitting up large groups. The quieter you are, the more birds you will see. Additionally, refrain from using drones to capture images of the birds you see. The unnatural noise they create will startle the birds. Birding may be a time you want to leave your dog at home to avoid the chance of this predator’s presence scaring the birds away.
Many of us probably remember feeding bread to the ducks as a kid. However, those days are in the past. While wildlife may seem like they appreciate human food in the moment, it can be damaging to their health. Wildlife, including birds, who get access to human food sources often become aggressive which can put you, other recreationists and these animals at risk. You can also protect birds and other wildlife by always packing out all of your trash.
While you may be an experienced birder, some folks may be trying this activity for the first time, and vice versa! Be considerate of the interests and skill levels of other birders as well as other visitors.
Savannah Wiman is the Leave No Trace Membership Lead. She coordinates all aspects of the Leave No Trace membership program, communication to members and oversight of membership data. Savannah graduated from Vassar College with a BA in Anthropology.
Author: Guest Contributor
The Pennsylvania Wilds is home to more than 2 million acres of public land, 50 state game lands, 29 state parks, 8 state forests, 2 National Wild & Scenic Rivers, abundant wildlife, hundreds of miles of land and water trails, some of the darkest skies in the country, and the largest elk herd in the northeast.
The PA Wilds team is grateful to share the many stories of this region through the words and images of our talented guest contributors.