I find that, at times, I'm a little embarrassed to watch birds while in the vicinity of others who are not. This is not a real problem - just a curiousity about the hobby.
For example, when I'm watching on my front porch and I detect a car approaching, or see a neighbor step outside, I typically put my binoculars down in an attempt to look normal. I partly think I might be rude to continue watching (and seemingly ignoring them). As well, I simply don't want to appear strange to others.
Also, on occasion, a bird will position itself such that, in order to view it, I must look directly toward a house, car, or people. The worst is when I'm intently observing a bird near the street, and someone walks into my view. If it is someone I know, they usually wave their arms, laughing. Strangers typically smile and wave, or ignore me. I usually joke with whoever about "running off the birds". Occasionally, it will turn into a nice conversation about birds, etc.
Is it proper to watch birds in such an environment?
What experiences do others have?
Is there a code of etiquette for binocular use?
For example, when I'm watching on my front porch and I detect a car approaching, or see a neighbor step outside, I typically put my binoculars down in an attempt to look normal. I partly think I might be rude to continue watching (and seemingly ignoring them). As well, I simply don't want to appear strange to others.
Also, on occasion, a bird will position itself such that, in order to view it, I must look directly toward a house, car, or people. The worst is when I'm intently observing a bird near the street, and someone walks into my view. If it is someone I know, they usually wave their arms, laughing. Strangers typically smile and wave, or ignore me. I usually joke with whoever about "running off the birds". Occasionally, it will turn into a nice conversation about birds, etc.
Is it proper to watch birds in such an environment?
What experiences do others have?
Is there a code of etiquette for binocular use?
binocs are NOT guns
