Re:[nysbirds-l] Golden-crowned Sparrow and private property birds

[Arie Gilbert]

Fellow Birders, Chasers, and others similarly afflicted. There is the exciting report of a Golden-crowned Sparrow representing perhaps the 4th NYS sighting. It is on private property (unfortunately), and as of yet the location, permission to visit, and other parameters have not been disclosed. Some of you ( myself included ) would like to have this information so that we might enjoy this bird as well, while there are some out there who promote non-disclosure. *Unfortunately* there is precedent for discretion or non-disclosure being a good idea, and that sucks: don't you be the cause of that idea being perpetuated! So if you are one of those who would like to see this bird, and would like *subsequent* good birds in such places be made known, perhaps the following would be something to take note of and put into practice... Private property is, well, ~private~. Remember that. Most if not all of us would be alarmed or at least concerned if an unexpected group of people assembled outside. So behave *as if it were your home* and treat them as you would hope to be treated. You don't have the "right", but if you are nice you will be given permission. It is so much better to ask permission first, than try to after you have already pissed them off. Should a non birder inquire, show them your book with the bird in it, offer them a look through your optics, and *share your enthusiasm*. Also put yourself in the shoes of the finder of a rarity, or the person who puts themselves out to obtain access for the marauding hoards that will descend upon the hapless home-owner. DON'T MAKE THEM REGRET REPORTING OR REQUESTING ACCESS. As a visitor, it should be of utmost concern to each and every one of us to dispel any qualms the residents may have. This is for the benefit of the resident, for you, and for future birders hoping to get to the location in question. IOW don't make them conclude birders are jerks, and don't ruin it for others! How to do this? First of all, be *exceedingly* polite. NEVER TRESPASS. Do not enter onto the property unless *you specifically* have been given permission to enter onto the property. Don't knock on their door, don't ask to use their bathroom etc. Don't block the road or driveways, and be conscious of the effect on the neighbors too. Be polite to them *as well*. If you see someone blocking the road and creating a potential issue, *gently* remind them that we will all suffer and that we are trying to avoid any potential problems. If reports are posted with instructions on where to park, where to go, what to do/not do etc.     -follow the suggestions- Remember 'first impressions': If the first on the scene create an issue no matter how small, it may ruin it for others thereafter. OTOH if the first on the scene create a positive experience and the take away is that 'birders are such nice people' it will keep the door open. "The only thing better than seeing a good bird is getting others on it" - A.G. FWIW I have been to many a private residence that had hosted a rarity. Many hosts come away with it being a positive experience; some have sign-in books I bring a case of suet or bag of bird seed to leave as a gift. If you are a good photographer ( or even if you're not ) maybe send them a print.  *It promotes good will*.  It would be great if we collectively could disabuse those who believe it, that disclosure of these birds will create a problem. If that doesn't work, we can always tar and feather the transgressors and release them in Central Park so we can receive thrice hourly ebird sighting reports of them. ;) Happy impending new year and here's to good birds, Arie Gilbert North Babylon, NY WWW.Powerbirder.blogspot.com  WWW.qcbirdclub.org Where's That Bird? Maps to Local Birding Hotspots! http://www.qcbirdclub.org/birding-site-maps  -- NYSbirds-L List Info: Welcome and Basics Rules and Information Subscribe, Configuration and Leave Archives: The Mail Archive Surfbirds ABA Please submit your observations to eBird! --