I think we're talking about different scenarios, Craig
For a twitch like the Great Spotted Cuckoo it would be stupid to behave differently to the group, even if one was able to sneak closer without disturbing the bird. Yes, it would encourage others
In a scenario where one is alone, fieldcraft can be used to great effect, again without disturbing the bird
We're not disagreeing in the slightest; I was making a point slightly out of context, and perhaps not very clearly
-- Edited by John Watson on Monday 16th of May 2016 07:57:49 AM
Have to disagree John. One person encroaching too close encourages others to do the same. They need to show respect for the birds and the other people who are maintaining a sensible distance otherwise it's a push forward from all. Not tweeting or liking photos on the various social media sites might help. Speaking to the perpetrators doesn't seem to work as they seem to be too thick skinned or stupid to get it.
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No one on their death bed ever said they wished they'd spent more time at work. http://bitsnbirds.blogspot.co.uk
It's a matter of fieldcraft, and some photographers (also, some birding non-photographers) just don't get it
With good fieldcraft & stalking skills, it's easy to halve the distance to a bird without disturbing it. However, many think they have these skills but they just don't. It takes years of practice
Just because person A has got near a bird (or let the bird come to him), doesn't mean that person B can do the same trick
Looking at published photos, the depth of field is a clue as to who is close to the bird, though this doesn't mean they haven't used sound fieldcraft to get there
I think photographing the problem photographers would be a discouragement
Twitter is alive this afternoon with requests for people, particularly photographers to stop disturbing some of the rarities that have turned up. People now talking about suppressing sightings because of an irresponsible few.
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No one on their death bed ever said they wished they'd spent more time at work. http://bitsnbirds.blogspot.co.uk
