Last week our family was visiting Lower Yosemite Falls and within the span of several minutes we spotted a bobcat and several mule deer. Children love to watch wildlife because it is action scenery. Wildlife pops out from the static surroundings and draws their attention and natural curiosity. If you are planning on some wildlife watching with your kids, here are three tips for a successful outing.
Photo Credit: Shellie Raney via Flickr
Before Going, Do Your Homework
Before your trip, find a field guide and read up on the wildlife that you hope to watch. Our kids seem to really enjoy guides with full color pictures. Draw their attention to species you are likely to see and share the attributes that distinguish one species from another such as field marks, size, and habitat. Understanding the feeding habits and behaviors of your animal subjects will make them easier to find.
Here are some useful online resources that can help:
Wikipedia: You can learn about almost anything here.
Cornell Lab of Ornithology: Bird identification and birding tips.
North American Mammals: From the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, search by name or map.
When You Start the Expedition, Use the Proper Wildlife Precautions:
If you are traveling in bear or mountain lion habitat and traveling with children, be sure to take the proper precautions. Never feed a wild animal, as this will embolden and could result in a future altercation that might hurt another human and/or the animal.
Here is a list of special precautions published by the California Dept. of Fish and Game:
Bear Precautions
Mountain Lion Precautions
Coyote Precautions
Mule Deer Precautions
When You Spot Your Subject, Maintain a Respectful Viewing Space:
Attempting to touch a wild animal can result in injury to both the animal and the human. If an animal seems nervous, give it some space. Rather than interrupting courtship, nesting, or feeding, invest in some binoculars to help keep a healthy distance between you and your subjects.
Teach your child leave no trace principals and let the wildlife come to you. If you conceal yourself among plants to prevent you or your children from being detected, avoid damaging sensitive plant life in the process. Be considerate of other visitors and avoid using artificial animal calls which have been shown to cause undue stress on some wildlife species. Good luck and happy viewing!
About Mike Barlow
The Trailmix.Net Blog is the work of Mike Barlow who blogs about Family Outdoor Recreation, Outdoor Education, and the exploration of National Parks, trails, and other wild places with his children.