Odds are when you are in the backcountry you will have a camera, or a camera that has video capability. Especially with technology combining all muti-media gadgets. One of the great things about backpacking however, is seeing that rare instance when we see wildlife up close. This time of year we have Moose in rut. That means they come out and are much more available for snapshots. Not only can this be dangerous to us, but the Moose can get kinda upset also. Are there ethics when taking a photo or a video?

You bet there is.

Having a chance encounter with wildlife is a magnificent and treasured moment. Watching little elk calves speed running zigzag among the herd or glimpsing a bear munching on glacier lilies are sights that captivate and inspire us all.

For many however, the experience is overpowering. They lose sight of the fact that the subject of their admiration is a wild creature.

Yes, sadly, I’ve seen some foolish human behavior over the years which resulted in tragic consequences to wildlife and humans. Therefore, it’s imperative that you know how to view and photograph wildlife sensitively and responsibly in a low impact manner. Last year I had one of the most awesome experiences in the Backcountry. I got to video a Bull Moose in Rut. But with any awe inspiring moment, remember, wildlife is to be respected at all times. Here are some basic “code of ethics” to keep in mind next time you take a snapshot for the family album.

• First and foremost, view wildlife from a safe distance for both you and them. Respect their spatial needs. If the animal interrupts its behavior (resting, feeding, etc.), then you are too close and must distance yourself.
• Never force an action. Be patient! The most beautiful photographs result from natural action.
• Never come between a parent and its offspring. I’ve seen tiny bear cubs distressed, treed then separated from their mother by a throng of tourists eager for a closer look. This is unacceptable behavior.
• Never crowd, pursue, prevent escape, make deliberate noises to distract, startle or harass wildlife. This is stressful and wastes valuable energy in needless flight. The impact is cumulative. Consider that you may be the 65th person to yell “hey moose” at that animal that day while it’s attempting to tend to its young.
• Never feed or leave food (baiting) for wildlife. Habituation due to handouts can result in disease or even death of that animal and injury to you.
• Never encroach on nests or dens as certain species will abandon their young.
• Never interfere with animals engaged in breeding, nesting, or caring for young.
• Finally, and most significant, remember that the welfare of the subject and habitat are irrefutably more important than the photograph.

The video of this Moose was taken with much respect. One, he was bigger than I was, and two, he was in a hurry to catch a Female who had come out across the basin. Remember, we are in their neighborhood. The video or pic is not worth getting you or the wildlife hurt.

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