Having seen many a bald eagle and even been dive bombed by one while sitting in my sister’s office with an open door, I don’t consider it to be very special to see them.
But there are at least three birds that I’ve only ever seen one of in my life (and many that I will never see).
First, it is important to point out that the use of playback is prohibited in many parks and refuges. It is also illegal to disturb any endangered or threatened species (and playback can be interpreted as disturbance). Any potential negative impacts of playback are more likely to occur in areas with a lot of birding pressure, so avoiding playback entirely in those places is a good idea. Where and how to use it in other situations is up the individual birder.
The American Birding Association Code of Birding Ethics states that birders should “limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds, and never use such methods in heavily birded areas or attracting any species that is Threatened, Endangered, of Special Concern, or is rare in your local area.”
Ken Holman Premium Member 11 months ago
During a break on a “canyon rim walk” hike in central Australia the guide used his phone for this, and it was amazing.
gammaguy 11 months ago
Having seen many a bald eagle and even been dive bombed by one while sitting in my sister’s office with an open door, I don’t consider it to be very special to see them.
But there are at least three birds that I’ve only ever seen one of in my life (and many that I will never see).
roberta.forbes.pyle 11 months ago
Went on a cruise to Alaska with Hubby and some friends years ago. Saw more bald eagles than I ever imagined in my life.
Ed B Premium Member 11 months ago
First, it is important to point out that the use of playback is prohibited in many parks and refuges. It is also illegal to disturb any endangered or threatened species (and playback can be interpreted as disturbance). Any potential negative impacts of playback are more likely to occur in areas with a lot of birding pressure, so avoiding playback entirely in those places is a good idea. Where and how to use it in other situations is up the individual birder.
The American Birding Association Code of Birding Ethics states that birders should “limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds, and never use such methods in heavily birded areas or attracting any species that is Threatened, Endangered, of Special Concern, or is rare in your local area.”