Ethical Bird Photography

At Rocky Point Bird Observatory (RPBO), we believe that great bird photography does more than capture a beautiful image.  It reflects respect for the birds, their habitats, and the ecosystems we all share. Each year, our “Focus on Birds Calendar” showcases the incredible diversity of birdlife found here in what we proudly call the Birding Capital of Canada. The success of this project depends not only on stunning images, but on ensuring those images are created ethically and responsibly.

Whether you’re submitting a photo for the calendar or simply enjoying birds with your camera, we ask that you follow these principles.

Put Birds First
The well-being of birds must come before any photograph. Ethical photography means allowing birds to continue feeding, resting, and caring for their young without interruption.

• Keep a respectful distance so birds can behave naturally.
• If a bird changes its behaviour, becomes alert, or moves away, you are too close.
• Never approach birds to intentionally make them fly or react.
• Use a telephoto lens or natural cover (like a blind) to observe without disturbing.

 

Special Care During Nesting Season
Nesting birds are especially vulnerable and require extra caution.  Even small disturbances can expose eggs or chicks to predators or harsh conditions.

• Avoid photographing nests if your presence could cause stress.
• Never flush adults or draw attention to a nest.
• Do not alter vegetation or surroundings to get a clearer shot.
• Limit time spent near nesting areas.

 

No Baiting, Luring, or Playback
Natural behaviour leads to authentic photography. Forcing changes in a bird's behaviour could lead the bird to harm, and undermines ethical birding practices.

• Do not bait or entice birds to come out into the open, away from shelter, or away from their nests.
• Avoid using recorded bird calls (playback), which can disrupt breeding and territorial behaviour.
• Keep residential feeders clean and safe, if photographing your backyard birds.

 

Respect Habitat and Sensitive Species
Protecting habitat is just as important as protecting the birds themselves.

• Avoid trampling vegetation or disturbing other wildlife.
• Follow all local regulations and protected area guidelines.
• Be cautious when sharing locations of rare or sensitive species.
• Remove GPS data from images of vulnerable birds when appropriate.

 

No Drones
Drones can cause significant stress and disturbance to birds. In many protected areas, drones are prohibited by law.

• Do not use drones to photograph birds, nests or colonies.

 

Shorebirds and Coastal Species
Southern Vancouver Island’s shorelines are critical habitat. Disturbance can prevent young birds from feeding and surviving migration.

• Keep a wide distance from beach-nesting birds and chicks.
• Respect all roped-off or protected areas.
• Avoid positioning yourself between birds and the shoreline.

 

Be Honest and Transparent
Ensure every photograph tells the authentic story.

• Accurately describe how the image was captured.
• Note if a bird is captive or photographed under special conditions.
• Avoid creating misleading impressions about wild behaviour.