The following is posted as a gentle reminder to all birders…

To avoid stressing birds or exposing them to danger, exercise restraint and caution during observation, photography, sound recording, or filming. Limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds, and never use such methods in heavily birded areas, or for attracting any species that is Threatened, Endangered, or of Special Concern, or is rare in your local area.

Keep well back from nests and nesting colonies, roosts, display areas, and important feeding sites. In such sensitive areas, if there is a need for extended observation, photography, filming, or recording, try to use a blind or hide, and take advantage of natural cover.

Use artificial light sparingly for filming or photography, especially for close-ups.

Before advertising the presence of a rare bird, evaluate the potential for disturbance to the bird, its surroundings, and other people in the area, and proceed only if access can be controlled, disturbance minimized, and permission has been obtained from private land-owners. The sites of rare nesting birds should be divulged only to the proper conservation authorities.

BIRD PROTECTION QUEBEC – Birders’ Code of Conduct

Birds MUST come first at all times

  • Avoid stressing birds by approaching too closely
  • Make as little noise as possible
  • Limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds
  • Keep away from nests, nesting colonies and breeding sites
  • Avoid using flash photography
  • If birds become agitated by your presence, BACK OFF

Protect all bird habitat

  • Stay on roads, marked trails or paths
  • Avoid trampling vegetation
  • Do not remove any plant material or fungi
  • Park sensibly

Respect private property

  • Be careful not to trespass without permission
  • Leave immediately if asked to do so
  • Do not block driveways or cause damage to fences
  • Inform landowner of interesting sightings

Have consideration for other birders

  • Do not disrupt other birders’ activities
  • Be polite to other birders and helpful to beginners
  • Be courteous in explaining the possible negative results of thoughtless behaviour you may witness

Rare bird sightings

  • Before advertising the presence of a rare bird, evaluate the circumstances carefully
  • Consider whether an influx of birders will disturb the bird, people or other species in the area, and whether habitat will be damaged and where people will park
  • Inform the landowner of the find and explain what may happen
  • Sites of rare nesting birds should be divulged only to the proper conservation authorities

Download the Birders Code of Ethics