Things You'll Need:
- Trail Map
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Map of Wildlife Viewing Areas
- Notebook
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Step 1
Do not approach wildlife. You are responsible for your own safety in wilderness areas and getting too close is a dangerous idea.
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Step 2
Keep human food to yourself. Feeding wildlife can cause animals to be aggressive. Plus, it can be harmful to their overall health.
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Step 3
Alter your route if necessary to move out of the path of wildlife. Do not block an animal's path.
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Step 4
Take advantage of designated observation areas whenever possible. These are designed to protect both you and the wildlife you want to observe.
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Step 5
Use binoculars, telephoto lenses and spotting scopes to minimize animal stress and keep to a safe distance.
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Step 6
Move to a safe distance quietly and quickly if an animal approaches you.
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Step 7
Follow the "Be Bear Aware" link at the Center for Wildlife Information website for important guidelines in the event of a bear or cougar encounter. These animals can be particularly dangerous and should be handled with extreme care.
