Birding and Photography Ethics Statement
I follow and promote the American Birding Association’s Code of Birding Ethics, found at https://www.aba.org/aba-code-of-birding-ethics/
I take care to disrupt wildlife as minimally as possible while taking photos. With birds of prey specifically, I never intentionally flush raptors, participate in baiting, or use flash photography. I believe extreme caution and deliberate care needs to be used when observing nesting raptors, roosting owls, or any raptor with prey. I do not advertise the specific locations of nesting raptors or roosting owls. I try to limit the duration of encounters to avoid stressing or drawing unnecessary attention to a sensitive species.
In-hand Raptors
Any observation or photography of raptors-in-hand that I have participated in is done under the strict supervision of properly licensed and trained naturalists. Only licensed rehabilitators, biologists, and educators should handle wild raptors.
Non-wild Raptors
Any non-wild bird I have photographed will be clearly labeled as “captive” / “rehab bird” / “educational bird” / “falconry bird” etc.
Commitment to Improvement
I also recognize that the topic of wildlife photography ethics requires a commitment to improvement and an acceptance of constant and continual learning. I welcome any and all feedback and discussion on this topic. Please drop me a line with any questions!