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Local Sightings: (Live Chat + Daily Logs)

CODE OF ETHICS: Protecting What We Photograph

The Local Sightings space is a powerful tool for sharing the beauty of Essex County. However, with that power comes a responsibility to protect the subjects we love.

A photograph is never worth endangering an animal or damaging a habitat. When posting reports or viewing wildlife, we ask all members to adhere to these four principles:

1. The "Sensitive Species" Rule (No GPS)

For species that are easily stressed or vulnerable to poaching/harassment, do not share specific locations.

  • Target Species: Owls (all species), nesting birds, denning foxes/coyotes, and rare orchids.

  • The Protocol: Use only broad regional descriptions.

    • ❌ Don't post: "Snowy Owl on the fence post at Concession 4 and Mersea Road 6."
    • ✅ Do post: "Snowy Owl spotted in the South Shore area."

  • Note: Admins reserve the right to delete posts that reveal exact locations of at-risk wildlife.

2. Ethical Interaction (No Luring)

We observe nature; we do not manufacture it.

  • No Baiting: Do not use food (mice, seed, etc.) to lure raptors or predators for a shot. This habituates them to humans and often leads to their death near roads.
  • Audio Calls: Please avoid using playback (bird call apps) to attract birds, especially during breeding/nesting season (Spring/Early Summer). It distracts them from mating and defending territory.

3. Respect the "Stress Line"

Learn to read the animal's body language. If the animal stops what it is doing, stares at you, or moves away, you are too close.

  • Back away immediately.
  • Use a longer lens, not your feet.
  • A "fledgling" on the ground is usually being watched by its parents. Leave it alone unless it is in immediate danger.

4. Respect the Land

Essex County has limited natural habitat.

  • Stay on Trails: Especially in Point Pelee, Ojibway, and Hillman Marsh. Stepping off-trail damages delicate ecosystems and spreads invasive species.
  • Private Property: A bird in a field does not give you the right to enter that field. Respect our local farmers and landowners.

The Bottom Line: We are nature lovers first, and photographers second. Let’s make sure the wildlife is still here for us to enjoy next season.

CODE OF ETHICS: Protecting What We Photograph