Observing the natural world is known to be highly therapeutic, and watching wildlife must be one of the
easiest and most pleasurable pastimes imaginable. You can do it anywhere. Wherever you are in the
world, there will be plants and animals not too far away.

If we’re going to keep the wildlife wild, however, we need to adopt a few basic principles, explained below:

• Never feed or bait animals to lure them closer. Many species can be dangerous if surprised, fed, or cornered, not to mention the fact that some carry deadly diseases such as hanta virus, rabies, or bubonic plague

• Never try to get too close to an animal. Each species has its own tolerance levels for interaction with
humans. Maintain suitable distances from wildlife, allowing the animal a suitable escape distance.
Don’t push your guide or driver to get closer to animals than is acceptable. In areas where hunting
is allowed, animals tend to be much shyer than in areas that are free of hunting

• Binoculars, spotting scopes, or telephoto lenses give the best up-close view of animals. They also
help to minimize disturbance, allowing you to observe the animal’s natural behavior

• When watching animals, look for signs of agitation, aggressive behavior, warning calls or distraction
techniques. If you see such signs, you’re too close. Back away slowly and quietly. Always keep a low
profile

• If you find a young animal or eggs, whatever you do DON’T TOUCH! Parents may reject their young
if they detect human odor on them or in the nest. If possible, seek expert help (park rangers/guides,
animal protection societies, etc.)