Wildlife Viewing Tips

Tools of the trade

The best way to become familiar with birds and animals before you expolore the great outdoors, is to either purchase a field guide, or go to a local library, and become familiar with some of the species you will find in Pennsylvania. This way, it will be much easier to identify your subject. You will also need a pair of binoculars or spotting scope.  When it comes to binoculars and scopes you should try to buy the best ones you can afford.  Don't break the bank because you can use the cheaper brands and still see a lot of wildlife.  When you can afford better equipment, you will appreciate the difference.  With these items, you will get what you pay for.  A note pad and pencil will come in handy when you can't identify a bird or animal.  Take notes describing it's features, you can even draw a picture of the shape of the beak, tail, etc.  And finally, you need to dress for the terrain you will be going into.

Choose the Best Times 

The best time to try to see wildlife is anytime you have a chance.  Although, there are times of the day that       are more productive than others.  Dawn and Dusk are generally better times to see wildlife as most are more       active at those times.  If you have the luxury of choosing the day and times to go wildlife watching, check        moon phases and tidal charts if you are near tidal waters.  Do a little research on the species you want to find

and decide when and where to go.  Or, you can do what I do and go whenever you have a chance and look         for anything that happens by.  You might be suprised at what you see!

Try not to disturb the wildlife

Keep your distance . Stay on trails when possible and maintain a distance that is comfortable for the wildlife.

Stay quiet, move slowly and quietly to increase your chances of viewing wildlife, and to avoid stressing the animals you want to watch.  If you happen to scare an animal or bird...Freeze!  Most birds and animals run or fly for a short distance and then try to check you out.  If you stay still, you might be able to have a good look at whatever it was that you kicked up.

Do not feed wildlife

Feeding Wildlife makes wildlife less afraid of humans and that is dangerous for people and wildlife alike.  Also, there are many laws about feeding animals such as geese and bears.  These laws are there to protect both humans and wildlife. 

Be Patient

Just remember that Wildlife is wild and very unpredictible.  If you do your homework and follow these simple rules you will see plenty of wildlife.  Don't be upset at what you don't see be excited about the things that you did see.  Some of my most exciting things I have seen, were when I was not looking for them.