[Birdtalk] ABA listing rules (was "Whip-poor-will")

[Ryan O'Donnell]

Craig Fosdick correctly pointed out that for those of you interested in
"listing" birds according to ABA rules, hearing the bird alone is
sufficient.  ABA listing rules also stipulate that birds can only count
if they are found while following the ABA Code of Ethics, which among
other things states that you must . . . 

"avoid stressing birds or exposing them to danger, exercise restraint
and caution during observation, photography, sound recording, or
filming."

"Limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds, and
never use such methods in heavily birded areas, or for attracting any
species that is . . . rare in your local area;"  

"Use artificial light sparingly . . . "

"Stay on roads, trails, and paths where they exist; otherwise keep
habitat disturbance to a minimum."

Not only is it necessary to follow these rules for ABA listing, but it
is also good common sense and ethics.  Disregarding these rules can
result in birders being forced to consider yet another ABA rule in the
future, as some have in the past, to the detriment of the entire Utah
birding community:

"Before advertising the presence of a rare bird, evaluate the potential
for disturbance to the bird, its surroundings, and other people in the
area, and proceed only if access can be controlled [and] disturbance
minimized . . ."

I hope it's clear that I'm not trying to point fingers or make threats.
I just thought it wouldn't hurt to have a reminder out there while we're
all so excited about a new bird.  Enjoy the bird and the birding,
everyone!

Sincerely,
Ryan
 
Ryan P. O'Donnell
Department of Biology and the Ecology Center
Utah State University
5305 Old Main Hill
Logan, UT 84322-5305
 
http://200birds.blogspot.com