Responsible wildlife watching

Watching wildlife is exciting, but remember to act responsibly around wildlife. Some plants can be easily damaged. Birds and other animals can also be easily alarmed or distressed if you don't take care. There' s a published Code of Conduct    for watching marine wildlife to help keep you along the right lines.

Here are a few simple guidelines:

• Do not intentionally or recklessly disturb or destroy plants, eggs, birds, other animals or geological features.
• Do not linger if it is clear that your presence is causing significant disturbance to a bird or other wild animal.
• Follow any agreed information aimed at preventing significant disturbance to protect plants, birds or other animals, or at preventing the spread of erosion in more sensitive areas.
• Take extra care to avoid disturbing more sensitive birds and animals, particularly during their breeding season.
• Stay clear from red deer stags during the rut when they are particularly aggressive and dangerous.
• Take all litter away with you.
• Take all necessary measures to prevent the risk of fire.
• When bringing dogs, keep them under close control.
• Make efforts to use wildlife operators who follow a code of conduct.