Link to Home Links to About Link to Expeditions Link to Sponsorship Link to Photographs
 

Lori's Code of Ethics for Watching Wildlife and the Environment

All over the world, there are different rules and regulations concerning how close one can get to wildlife and if it is legal or illegal to collect souvenirs such as rocks, feathers and bones. As an educator and conservationist, I feel it is important to have a personal code of ethics that respects and even transcends local regulations. It is vital that I am aware of my actions while I am viewing wildlife and what impact my presence may have on animals and the environment.

My code of conduct includes the following policies:

  1. Never collect artifacts or souvenirs in protected areas. In non-protected areas, I also advocate a "no collection" policy, however, if there is one rock or shell that is special, do take it home and treasure it. Be careful with any items that you collect and make sure that there are no animals living in or on the object.
  2. Stay quiet when observing animals in their natural habitat.
  3. Do not alter the natural behavior patterns of animals in any way.
  4. Stay at a respectful distance from all wildlife and use your binoculars or telephoto lens to get a closer look. Now, I've tried to tell this to the wildlife as well, but you will notice in my bogs that there are situations where I am close to the animals, either on land or in the zodiacs. In these situations, it is important to understand that I am the one being approached, rather than the other way around. As to not scare the animals, I will stay still or quiet when approached, allow them to explore, and then will either quietly back away, or allow them to leave my area when they are ready. In addition, when on the water, if marine mammals approach very close, I will shut off my engine or make sure it is in neutral to avoid accident or injury.
  5. Never feed or touch wild animals – you can get them very sick.
  6. Never litter, either on accident because of the wind, or on purpose. This includes leaving biodegradable items behind, such as tissue or food.
  7. Always wash your hands and shoes between site visits so you do not transmit disease or seeds unknowingly.

IAATO Marine Wildlife Watching Guidelines