Guidelines for wildlife watching

The opportunity to see exotic wildlife is a huge draw for many holidaymakers, whether you’re in search of the Big Five, seeking wildlife between the trees in the rainforest, or heading out on a boat to spot whales and dolphins. Closer to home, too, there are national parks, wildlife reserves and other protected landscapes sheltering birds, badgers and beavers, amongst others. Encountering a wild rhino may be very different to encountering a rabbit, but wildlife is wildlife, and many of the guidelines for protecting it are the same whether you’re in East Africa or East Anglia. What’s more, wildlife conservation should extend to protecting habitats and local communities, too.

We spoke to Julian Matthews, founder of Tour Operators for Tigers (TOFTigers) and web-based tiger watch project Tiger Nation, and to Dr Matt Walpole, Senior Director of Conservation Programmes at Flora and Fauna International. Matt previously worked for UN Environment and was a judge of the World Responsible Travel Awards. They have both shared their tips for better wildlife watching, whether on a remote African safari, or in the woods behind your home.

Read on for a few important pointers for your next wildlife holiday, weekend break or ramble in the local countryside.

5. Be considerate of wildlife
Minimise disturbance by being quiet or speaking in a low voice when watching wildlife. Remain calm and try not to make sudden movements. If the wildlife you are watching appears to be disturbed or stressed by your visit it might very well be. Ask the warden or your guide for their opinion, and withdraw if appropriate.

“Do not try to interact with wild animals, for example by seeking to attract their attention or touch them. Also, try not to surround animals, whether on foot, in boats or in cars/safari vehicles, as this can be stressful for them.” – Dr Matt Walpole

6. Keep an eye out for baby animals
Be especially aware of parents with young. The bind between the two is very important and can easily be disturbed, especially in the early days. It can also be dangerous for you if you are standing between a mother and baby, for example.

7. Report incidents
If you find a dead or dying animal, report to the authorities – unless the cause of death is predation, for example.

8. Consider when you travel
“The astounding growth of nature tourism over the last decade now means that in some countries, nearby cities empty into the countryside during the numerous holidays and festivals. This is when the reserves and lodges are filled to capacity and often means a less wild experience as you jostle with jeeps and people on your game drives. If you have no choice over your travel dates, use these high days and holidays to explore outside the parks.” – Julian Matthews

9. Think before you buy
Be careful to ensure that any souvenirs you buy – including shells, coral, feathers, bone or ivory – are not creating a market to destroy the very thing you came to see. Do not buy souvenirs made or hard woods or other natural resources that might result in habitat destruction. In addition, trade in some of these items may be restricted, in which case they could be confiscated or you could receive a fine or worse. If in doubt, don’t buy!

10. Research your accommodation
If you are staying overnight in or near a protected area, choose accommodation with a responsible tourism policy that minimises waste, water and energy use and supports the local community.

“The growth in tourism has created a development boom around many parks. As a result, what you think will be a fabulous wilderness experience can leave you disappointed. Even worse, it could be compromising the long-term health of the parks and the communities who live there.” – Julian Matthews

11. Support local communities
“Communities that coexist with wildlife or live adjacent to national parks often bear a cost for little reward; much of the tourism dollar goes elsewhere. Finding ways to maximise benefits for, often very poor, local communities and local enterprises is part of responsible travel and can help to increase local support for wildlife.” – Dr Matt Walpole

Most wildlife viewing takes place in protected areas. In certain destinations, communities who once lived in these areas, or relied on these areas as a resource are now prohibited from doing so, in order to promote conservation and to make way for tourists. These communities are often very poor and may also suffer damage to their crops, homes or even lives, as a result of living alongside dangerous wildlife.

It’s very important that they derive some financial benefit for facing these ‘costs’. By thinking local (guide, accommodation, food etc) or booking a trip with a holiday company committed to responsible tourism, you can ensure local economic benefits are maximised.

“The animals may be the main draw, but the most memorable parts for many travellers often come from the interactions with local people. A great guide can turn an average nature holiday into an extraordinary one. They’re worth every penny, so don’t compromise – ask for the best you can get. They’ll focus on the star attractions, but get them to show you the ‘little five’ too: go on a nature walk, learn about animal tracks, bizarre insects or the colourful birdlife. For kids especially, this bit is the ‘real wild show’.” – Julian Matthews