Tips for Field Trip Participants
Our Chapter field trips are made possible by the generosity of the members who agree to lead them.
To make their jobs easier and to make the trips more enjoyable for all participants, we offer these suggestions:
Planning Ahead
- For a "reservation only" trip, call the leader as soon as possible.
- On trips with a limited number of participants, members take precedence over nonmembers.
- Most trips are inappropriate for young children.
- If you must cancel, please inform the leader well in advance, as there may be a waiting list.
Car Talk
- Carpool for conservation. Cost-sharing and good company are fringe benefits of carpooling.
- When caravanning, maintain the leader's pace and keep the car behind you in your rearview mirror at all times.
- Headlights help leaders keep track of the cars behind them. Flash car lights to catch the leader's attention.
- When stopping, pull well off the road, turn your engine off promptly, and remove the key from the ignition.
- Close doors quietly!
Field Gear
- Along with binoculars and field guides, bring insect repellent, food, and beverages.
- Take spotting scopes for viewing shorebirds and waterfowl.
- Wear comfortable, dark-colored clothing. Weather conditions can change rapidly, so be prepared.
- Leave pets at home.
Trail Mix
- Arrive at meeting place on time and check in with the leader.
- Avoid sudden or loud noises.
- Avoid sweeping gestures - point slowly using only your hand and fingers.
- Walk quietly.
- Keep voices low.
- Tall people should be mindful of short people.
- Let the leader lead. Never precede the leader in walks or caravans.
- Don't "case" the area before the leader arrives.
- Leave "spishing" to the leader and avoid movement during spishing.
- Stay with the group.
- If you must leave early, tell the leader and avoid departing through an area yet to be explored by group.