Do unto others as you would have others do unto you

Its always fun to work in a group as group activities make for a friendly experience where noticing and sharing is part of good etiquette. We all learn from each other and in doing so even the boring tasks become easy and interesting.

I remember, when initially  I decided to learn birding in a systematic manner, I opted to join the Nature Bird Walk, a monthly activity of the local bird club for the novice and school children, but after attending two such walks I discontinued it. Why ? I soon realized that although the experienced  members of the Club, who conduct these walks, have wonderful knowledge and style to educate others, yet most of the participants, irrespective of their age, know a little about the birding etiquettes . I questioned myself, will it not be good if  apart from apprising the participants about various aspects of different species of birds, the inquisitive minds are also made aware of do’s and don’ts of bird watching. This could be easily done by  simply handing over a printed leaflet on do’s and don’ts to the team leader to  prevent the beginners  from becoming a nuisance to others. Also, the efforts made for a successful walk will not be wasted.

While birding, one has to be reasonably quiet, follow the etiquette of not staying at one place too long, prefer to make space for others, look at the bird or take photos and then move on. But  why ? Because there may be someone waiting to use the same spot you found to be so good. This occurs often at popular birding hot spots. The flip side of the story is that  those polite may miss  some nice shots because the other person stayed too long where someone too wanted to photograph from, and then it was time to leave with the group. One must learn  not to get in line of sight of other birders or photographers without any purpose. If you want to be closer to a particular bird or a flock of birds, discuss with other birders or photographers in low tone or in a language of signs as your hasty move may make the birds fly away. Or may the photographers agree to take turns at the location. Or too much wait for a turn to make a photo may result into a disappointment, if  in the meantime the bird flies away. But that’s a matter of chance. Remember, you are not only a part of the group, but also in a territory of birds where they  have their own rules and regulations  and they expect others to understand these.

In these days of Covid-19 pandemic, the prevailing concept of social distancing may also educate birders not to stand in front of someone or cross  who may want to photograph or have a clear look at the bird, thus blocking the view. Don’t ruin someone else’s pristine catch.  This is especially important  when you’re on a field trip with your fellow members or on any such trip. Always make a point  to move after having a look at the bird or taking photos instead of standing there looking around.  Many times there is someone waiting for you to finish even when you didn’t realize it. There is also a possibility that you may wait until the others have left. It is better to follow good common sense for birding or photography when you’re with  others.

Subhash Sapru

The author is Associate of Photographic Society of America, USA.