Rarities

["Greg" <>]

Hi Val and Mike,

This is an important issue that you have raised because important sightings 
may not get on the record if unusual records are dismissed out of hand.  On 
the other side of the coin to be too accepting can mean that the reliability 
of the the databases that the records end up in can be undermined.
People who think that a record may be in error need to approach the observer 
in a diplomatic and friendly (and supportive) way and people being asked for 
more details shouldn't get offended too easily. I have offended people by 
just asking for more details of a sighting so when I need to follow up a 
reported sighting now I am nervous about offending the observer.
Science is all about questioning but it is not about trying to undermine or 
offend other people.  If you know you are right about an ID stick to it and 
don't get offended if someone questions it.  If you are totally confident 
about your ID then you should be able to provide the evidence to convince 
others.  The rarities committees are a valuable way of having unusual 
records vetted.
I have read postings on Birding-aus where people have been too harsh on 
others, particularly new subscribers, so if you feel offended don't drop off 
and disappear into the ether, stand and defend you point of view.  There 
will be others who will support you.
Regards

Greg Clancy