birding-aus

RE: Taping birds.

To: "" <>
Subject: RE: Taping birds.
From: "Conole, Lawrie" <>
Date: Tue, 18 Nov 1997 17:01:36 +1000
> 1. In relation to the discussion of using bird tapes.  Are there 
> studies (with specific evidence) which demonstrate damage due 
> to using tapes? Is there substantive theory which suggests harm 
> might be caused? References?
> 
Yes, I believe such studies exist, where birder densities are higher
(USA, UK), but no, I don't have the reference(s).  We've had this
discussion on the list before (about tapes & spotlighting).  Many
birders say "Prove it's harmful, or I'll continue on with what I'm
doing.".  I prefer to be more careful than that.  Whatever happened to
the cautionary principle? 

> 3. Is there a trace of puritanism in the discussion criticising use 
> of tapes? Birding has to be difficult to be good? Or is there 
> real concern about bird welfare?
> 
Well both, but I did say it was MY opinion.  What's the point collecting
stamps (getting the birds in with a device)?  I don't find it appealing,
but some do, so they should justify their actions.  You question my
interest in bird welfare - I question the interest in bird welfare of
anyone who uses tapes simply to twitch birds.

> 4. It is good to clarify these issues since most of us want to see 
> lots of (sometimes elusive) birds but absolutely seek to do the birds 
> no harm in the process. 
> 
In my experience in various fields of endeavour, many people give little
or no consideration to the consequences of their actions.  Recreational
birding is not intrinsically benign, & it is blinkered to think anything
else.

Yes, I'm dogmatic.

Cheers, Lawrie

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