Wildlife Watching Tips
Ultimate wildlife watching is behavior watching, viewing animals without
interrupting their normal activities. Follow these simple tips to observe
wildlife in their normal routine and you'll be rewarded by their acceptance
of you in their world. It's a special feeling you will never forget!
Blend with the landscape. Wear subdued, natural colors.
Be as scent-free as possible. Walk softly and quietly without trying to
sneak.
Stick to the sidelines. Use binoculars or telephoto lenses
to avoid crowding your subject.
Take it easy, relax. Animals detect tension. Move slowly, act disinterested,
avoid staring. Never move directly toward an animal. Do not try
to sneak up on wildlife; if you act like a predator they will run.
Think like an animal. Use a field guide to learn more about
the specie's life history, preferred food and habitat. Look along borders
between habitat types to see residents from both places. Look in high visitation
areas such as game trail intersections, ledges overlooking open areas and
watering sites.
Respect national park and forest rules; they are designed
to protect the wildlife and habitat.
Respect private property. Do not trespass.
Please do not feed the wildlife. Feeding produces a dependence
on unnatural foods which are not healthy for survival in the wild.
Use your car as a blind for watching wildlife.
Pull all the way off the road, turn off the motor and lights.
Keep young children and pets quiet and inside the car.
Photo Tips
Use at least a 300-400mm telephoto lens and tripod.
Respect the safety and welfare of your subject.
Aim for photos of calm, dignified, unstressed animals.
Shoot with the sun at your back if possible.
Morning and afternoon light is best.
If you don't have a telephoto lens, show the animal in its natural surroundings
rather than getting too close.
Binocular Tips
Find the subject with your unaided eye.
Bring the eyepieces just under your eyes.
Sight the subject over the tips of the eyepieces.
Slowly bring the binoculars to your eyes and focus.
Estes Park WildWatch Table of Contents
Estes Park Virtual Visitor
Guide | Estes Park Online Lodging
Guide | Estes Park On-Line