birding-aus

The Yellow Bittern Threads - Analysis of a Blamestorm

To: Laurie Knight <>
Subject: The Yellow Bittern Threads - Analysis of a Blamestorm
From: Carl Clifford <>
Date: Mon, 14 Jul 2014 21:18:14 +1000
But we are a marvelous subject for anyone studying group dynamics. Not mention 
good for a few laughs.

Carl Clifford

> On 14 Jul 2014, at 19:44, Laurie Knight <> wrote:
> 
> G’day
> 
> Speaking as an online researcher of Australian birdwatchers, the Yellow 
> Bittern threads provide a useful example of social group dynamics and a 
> reminder of how things can blow up (bushfire metaphors are quite appropriate 
> for this subject).
> 
> The first thing is that emotive language and finger pointing create a fuel 
> load that is easily sparked into a blamestorm.  Naming and shaming has a 
> righteous feel to it, but it has to be accurate and measured.  It can easily 
> develop into a lynch mob mentality and result in law suits.
> 
> The second this is that sweeping statements tend to confuse the situation and 
> make things worse [throw away lines have a tendency to blow up in people’s 
> faces].
> 
> In the case of the Yellow Bittern we had "Due to the selfish and careless 
> actions of these few anyone wishing to view this bird has now had that 
> privilege denied.  …. Birders are now asked to refrain from visiting this 
> site.”
> 
> The identification of the irresponsible birders as photographers exposed a 
> fault line and the claim that people would not be able to see the bird set it 
> off.  While the post gave the impression that birders were supposed to 
> refrain from visiting the site, the reality was that birders shouldn’t stray 
> onto the golf course.  Being a public place, the Wallaroo Ct pond was never 
> off limits.  Due to the urgency of a rare chance to see a mega, people got 
> worked up.  Feeling they were being picked on, birders with cameras got their 
> backs up ...
> 
> The initial reactions of people to a problematic post can determine whether 
> things are sorted out amicably or it blows up.  Beware of making quick 
> judgements and strong assertions.  Above all, think twice before adding to 
> the fuel load or creating a strong wind current.
> 
> Regards, Laurie.
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