So Many Questions; So Few Answers

I have often wondered over the years whether my being out in the open when filming birds makes a difference in their behavior. I know birds are not going to come right up to me — although there have been a couple times when they didn't recognize me and did just that.

One day when I was standing in this same spot, pretty much like in this picture, a Great Blue Heron flew up and tried to land right next to me. I really don't think it recognized me as human because of the way I was standing behind the camera.

Even after all this time, I still have unanswered questions. For example, does the color of my shirt change their behavior? Does it make a difference if I wear a subdued color rather than a brightly colored shirt?

I had gotten a camouflaged blind at one point, but even a tool like this isn't completely foolproof. If it wasn't there before, birds know that and will remain wary of the new object. If you can leave it setup, they will become use to it, but if you have to erect and remove it, you probably have not solved your problem.

One of main complaints with a blind was that the view was restricted on each side. I could see what was out in front of me fine, but couldn't see anything approaching from the side. And, although it was relatively small, the footprint was larger than the footprint I have with the netting in that picture. At times it wouldn't be a problem, but if the location was tight, it could be difficult to erect and take down.

I decided just recently to try a camouflage hunting net. I was motivated by the Wood Ducks. When I arrive at the pond, no matter how unobtrusive I try to be, they tend to leave. Eventually they do come back, but they can still see me standing there and I wondered if they wouldn't come in closer if I was under camo.

I finally decided to order some netting and it came in yesterday. It is open netting so it shouldn't be too hot. Plus, it is surprisingly easy to see through holes in the netting in either direction. Of course it is suppose to rain for the next week, so it will be a while before I get to try it out. I don't mind the rain, but it is hard to protect electronic cameras in the rain.

I can't wait to try it out. I will be very surprised if I don't see a difference in their behavior and I will let you know how I think it works in a future post.