Here’s How to Respectfully Birdwatch at Asa Wright Nature Centre

Birdwatching in Trinidad is a major draw for tourists, especially for those visiting Asa Wright Nature Centre, where more than 200 species of birds can be spotted throughout our rainforest preserve. However, one of the guiding principles of Arima Valley eco-tourism is to respectfully enjoy the natural wonders of our region. So, with that in mind, we’re highlighting proper birding etiquette to follow when you’re at the Asa Wright Nature Centre or on any nature photography tours in Trinidad.

Asa Wright Bird Watching Etiquette: TK Rules to Follow

Birdwatching is a fascinating experience, but we must remember that we’re guests within these creatures’ natural habitat. For that reason, it’s crucial that we minimise any disturbance caused by birdwatching, particularly when it comes to nesting colonies and when we are in the vicinity of sensitive species. Below are a few guidelines to follow :

• Avoid pursuing a bird that is agitated by your presence. Even if the bird does not fly away, your close approach will raise its stress levels.
• Refrain from approaching nesting birds, nesting colonies, roosts and feeding sites, as this can cause stress, predation, or nest failure.
• Do not attempt to touch the birds, unless it is absolutely necessary to assist, as in cases where you must remove an injured bird from immediate danger.
• During nesting season, be extremely cautious as your actions may harm unseen eggs or the young of highly camouflaged species.
• Never alter a bird’s habitat for a better view or for a photograph. Under no circumstances should you remove a branch or piece of vegetation that is obscuring your view, since this act will hamper the bird’s (or nest’s) ability to remain camouflaged from predators.
• Do not use spotlights or drones.
• Avoid flash photography of nocturnal birds and be cautious when using laser pointers. Never point the beam at or too close to a bird. Rather, direct it to a prominent branch or piece of vegetation in near proximity and verbally guide others to observe from that point to the bird.
• While photographing or filming, exercise restraint and if possible, use a hide, blind or natural cover in delicate environments.
• Be mindful when using recorded bird calls. Avoid using playback in heavily birded areas, during nesting season and in close proximity to sensitive or endangered species.
• Additionally, do not exceed the volume of the bird’s call and limit pre-recordings or playbacks to no more than 30 seconds. Allow more silence than playback. Pause for a minute or two, then repeat if there is no visible response. Additionally:
  • If the bird does respond, decrease the frequency of playback or cease it entirely.
  • If the bird does not show, wait quietly or return to the area after half an hour and try again. Some birds will respond vocally, while others may approach silently.
  • Under no circumstances should you continuously play a recording of a bird’s vocalization, especially using external speakers at loud volume.

Guided Birdwatching in Trinidad

While there are many rules to follow in proper birding etiquette, they are important for preserving the safety of our native species. So, with these tips in mind, you should be ready to go birding and discover some new avian beauties. But if you feel uncertain of your ability to responsibly enjoy Asa Wright birdwatching, we encourage you to explore our guided tours.