During this time of year, hunters are out in force. As a relatively new birder, I am concerned that while visiting places like Big Island and Kildeer Plains, I will walk into the path of a hunter, or get too close, or encroach in some other way. What are the guidelines and risks to birding on public land where hunting is permitted? For instance, as I was watching the sun come up over Big Island's westernmost impoundment last weekend, I was startled by gunfire coming from the grasses in the north half of the pond. Seems a little close, but I don't know what the precautions should be for birders AND hunters. Your comments are most appreciated. Scott E. Zimmermann ______________________________________________________________________ Ohio-birds mailing list, a service of the Ohio Ornithological Society. Please consider joining our Society, at www.ohiobirds.org/site/membership.php. Our thanks to Miami University for hosting this mailing list. You can join or leave the list, or change your options, at: listserv.miamioh.edu/scripts/wa.exe?LIST=OHIO-BIRDS Send questions or comments about the list to: [log in to unmask]