It seems we need to be reminded about this from time to time. Like doctors, our first concern in the field should be "Do No Harm" - to the environment, the birds, and to others enjoying the area. 

This morning a photographer was observed (and photographed!) leaving the established path at Frohring Meadows to get a closer picture of a bird, probably the Eurasian Wigeon. This was wrong at so many levels I won't take space to elaborate except to say it is selfish. If this rare bird is sufficiently disturbed it may leave the area for good, preventing others from enjoying good views of a special bird. Some of those visitors travel far and have to wait for weekends to bird. 

Let's remember to minimize our impact on the places we bird, stay on paths & trails if they exist, and be considerate of others who come there to get joy from viewing wildlife. Signs can be an intrusion to the experience ("Stay on Trails" or "Do No Disturb Wildlife"). In public places trails and paths exist for humans. Assume the rest of the space is for plants and animals and be considerate by staying on the trail. 

Enjoy the migration!

Matt Valencic

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