Wildlife Watching

Watching wildlife at Riverside State Park can be a very rewarding experience. The variety of wildlife within the vicinity of the park is remarkable.

Most animals see and hear and smellus long before we catch their drift. They decide whether to hide, defend themselves, or flee. Fighting and fleeing rob them of precious energy. Fortunately, there are simple ways you can blend into the environment. You will be treated to a wildlife show that makes your heart pound and your senses hum.

If you long to be "wrapped up in watching", follow these tips from experienced wildlife behavior watchers. With the right combination of patience and know-how, you'll be able to witness wildlife without startling them or sapping their energy. It's a feeling you'll never forget!

1. Fade into the woodwork

• wear natural colors and unscented lotions

• walk softly

• crouch behind boulders or vegetation to hide your figure or break up your outline

• Try not to throw a shadow

2. Let animals be themselves

• resist the temptation to "save" baby animals. Mom is usually watching from a safe distance.

• Let animals eat their own foods. Sharing your sandwich may harm their digestive system, and get them hooked on handouts.

• Let patience reward you. Resist the urge to throw rocks to see a flock of birds fly

• Savor the experience of being in an animal's home. Absorb all that it can teach you about living gently upon the land.

3. Stick to the Sidelines

• Use binoculars or zoom lenses to get close. Aim for pictures of assured, dignified animals, instead of stressed, panting victims.

• Give nests a wide berth. Although you mean well, your visit may lead a predator to the nest or cause the parents to jump ship, exposing eggs or young to the elements.

4. Come to Your Senses

• A wildlife encounter is a spectrum of sensations. Deepen awareness by tapping your sense of smell, taste, touch, hearing, and sight.

• Focus and expand your attention, taking in the foreground and then switching to take in the wide view.

• Use your peripheral vision rather than turning your head.

• Look for out of place shapes - horizontal shapes

• Watch for out of place motions -

• Look above and below you. Animals occupy niches in all of the vertical and horizontal layers

• Amplify natural sounds with "mule ears" -- cupping your hands behind your ears

• Heed your instincts. If your hair stands up on the back of your neck, an animal may be near!

• Silence can speak volumes. Animals may fall silent when a predator is in the area.

5. Be easy to be with

• Relax your muscles. Animals can detect tension

• Make yourself small and unassuming

• Move like molasses: slow, smooth, steady

• Avert your gaze; animals may interpret a direct stare as a threat

6. Think like an animal

• Imagine how the animal you are seeking spends its days. Check field guies to find out.

• The border between two habitats is often the best place to see residents of both

• Look in high visitation areas: trail intersections, perches, ledges overlooking open areas, drinking sites

• Consider the animal's daily needs: when will it nap, feed, bathe, drink. Dusk and dawn are usually best

• Factor in the weather. After a rain, for example, many animals find feed to be abundant.

Camera Tips

• At least a 400 mm lens

• Morning and late afternoon light are best

• Aim for featuring wildlife in its natural habitat, not a full frame profile.