Birds In The Garden - Jon Ashton

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Looks At Some R&R In The Open Air!

Hide or blind photography can be a most relaxing and rewarding form of natural history photography. It offers some choices, and presents you with the possibility of having some control over circumstances, a rare occurrence in the world of natural history photography. The hide offers an opportunity to enter the 'circle of fear' that all wild animals have;

more importantly, it offers this opportunity without it being at the animal's expense. Hides range from permanent, wooden structures, such as those at nature reserves, to small, portable versions that may be worn like an overcoat. This article is directed primarily at bird photography either in the garden or perhaps in some local, safe area adjacent to a wood or copse, using a portable hide in the form of a tent.

The advice offered is based upon personal experience, there is no single, prescriptive method that must be adhered to, but if you follow the guidelines I offer, then I promise, you will be rewarded with some satisfying images. All good nature photographers must adopt an ethical approach to the needs and welfare of their subject and the following points should be considered as mandatory: Everyone who enjoys birds and birding must always respect wildlife, its environment, and the rights of others. In any conflict of interest between birds and photographers, the welfare of the birds and their environment comes first. Learn patterns of animal behaviour – know when not to interfere with animals' life habits.

My approach to photography is to keep things simple and to work along with nature, rather than trying to overcome or fight it. The hide or blind can be placed in a position of your choice and perches equally so, though we will appreciate later in the article that certain choices have to be made to ensure optimal results.

Hides
There are a number of suppliers who provide commercially prepared hides in different sizes and offering varying degrees of portability. I use an Ameristep Doghouse Blind; this is camouflaged and is big enough for two people, plus gear. It has apertures on three sides and offers Velcro scrim-netting to ensure the birds cannot see into the hide; in addition, the interior of the hide is jet black. The hide can be erected and pegged down in a matter of five minutes or less. This convenience comes at a price, but I have used the hide regularly now for several years and it has served me well. If you do not wish to invest a great deal of money in purchasing a hide it is also worthwhile considering something as simple as camouflage netting, which may, for example, be placed over a fence or between a couple of posts or indeed, as I have done, across a garden trellis. Certain fishermen's tents may also be suitable; it is worthwhile looking at a number of wildlife and fishing websites to appreciate the range of h des available and their costs.

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