The Birdwatcher's Code
Following the birdwatcher's code is good practice, common sense and
should enable us all to enjoy seeing birds. Some three million adults
go birdwatching every year in the UK*. The code puts the
interests of birds first and respects other people, whether or not they are
interested in birds. It applies not just when you are at a nature
reserve, but whenever you are watching birds in the UK or abroad. It
has been produced by the leading bird organisations, magazines and
websites. It will be most effective if we lead by example and
sensitively challenge the minority of birdwatchers who behave
inappropriately.
Five things to remember:
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Avoid disturbing birds and their habitats - the birds' interests
should always come first |
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Be an ambassador for birdwatching |
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Know the law and the rules for visiting the countryside, and follow
them |
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Send your sightings to the County Bird Recorder and the Birdtrack
website |
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Think about the interests of wildlife and local people before passing
on news of a rare bird, especially during the breeding season. |