Observing Wildlife

1. Get Up Early
The best times for observing most animals are early in the morning and in the evening. Overcast days are also good times for observing many species.

2. Be Quiet
Make as little noise as possible and listen. You often hear wildlife before you see it. Move slowly and silently.

3. Stay Downwind
If you can, face into the wind when looking for wildlife. Many animals have a keen sense of smell, and the wind can carry your scent and scare them off. Don’t wear perfume or any strong-smelling scent like shampoo or lotion, as animals will pick up your scent.

4. Be Patient
Find a comfortable place to settle in, and be prepared to look, listen, and wait.

5. Pick a Good Spot
Know what you are looking for and where and when you are most likely to find it. Always ask permission before going onto private property.

6. Be Prepared
If you have a field guide, bring it with you so you can identify the animals you see. You can also bring a mobile phone and use one of many online apps and sites to help you identify and record wildlife, such as iNaturalist. Dress appropriately for the weather. Layers are always good because you can always take something off if you get too warm.

7. Respect Wildlife
Keep your distance from wildlife! Never follow wild animals or try to approach them, and never feed wild animals. If you want a close-up look at wild animals, bring a pair of binoculars with you.

Birds are the easiest animals to observe in the wild. Here are some basic bird-watching tips:

• Most bird species are at their most active in the early morning. Learn to identify the birds in your own backyard or neighborhood before you venture to other areas. It’s a great way to learn more about the birds in your area. If you have a bird feeder or garden, you probably have quite a few bird visitors during the year.

• A key to bird watching is often bird listening. Many species of birds can be identified by their distinct song or call. Again, it’s easiest to start close to home, so learn the calls and songs of the birds that visit your home first.

• A good bird identification field guide, website, or app is important if you want to identify the birds you see.

• Keep your eyes on an area for more than a few seconds. You may miss an animal if you look away too quickly.

• Most animals have deceptive coloration that helps them blend into their environment. Look for movement, color contrasts, or changes in shapes that might signal an animal’s presence.

• Look for animal tracks or other signs, such as scat (animal droppings), broken or gnawed branches, and stripped bark.

• Sometimes looking isn’t enough; remember to listen for the sounds of animals. Rustling leaves, crackling branches, and bird calls can all signal the presence of an animal.