Birding Ethics

Whether you’re out casually hiking any of these great birding sites, or seeking out some of our most unique birds, there are some important guidelines to make sure you enjoy all our wildlife without causing harm.  It’s important to ensure the success of our bird populations.  Therefore, we offer the following suggestions to maximize your visit while having the most minimal impact to our birds.  For more information on birding ethics, visit the American Birding Association (ABA) website.

  • Stay on paths, roads, and trails where available to limit habitat disturbance.
  • Keep noise to a minimum and limit bird song playback.Do not use playback in heavily birded areas.
  • Crouch down to make yourself appear smaller or consider using a blind.
  • Limit flash photography, artificial lighting, and sound recordings.
  • Always keep your distance from nesting, display, and important feeding sites.
  • Make sure you pick up all trash and supplies used while viewing.
  • Abide by the laws and rights pertaining to each property you are visiting. Be conscious of hours of operation, appropriate parking areas, and other visitors to the property.
  • Be a role model and advocate for birding in Indiana. Lead others by example and please encourage onlookers to learn about birding and the Indiana Birding Trail.