I realize this is somewhat off-topic. But I can rationalize it as
applying here in Virginia as well. If someone comes to bird here,
from out-of-state, here are some reasons why they should consider
getting someone to show them around. And, if any of you plan to bird
in a strange place, the same advice applies.
I spent 4 days last week in the Bahamas, and on one morning, I
employed a local guide. It was the first time I've ever done so, and
I assembled a list of reasons why I recommend it.
- Steve Johnson
Fairfax, VA
1) A local guide knows the right places to go, and to avoid.
(Example: the storefront with the coconut feeders)
2) A local guide saves you time spent distinguishing similar species,
by telling you one of them doesn't normally occur there.
(Example: Bahama Yellowthroat vs. Common Yellowthroat)
3) A local guide helps you recognize special birds by their calls
(Example: Thick-Billed Vireo)
4) A local guide can teach you about the local environmental and
natural history
(Example: when the Anhingas started appearing at New Providence
Island; how the Cuban Grassquits arrived)
5) A local guide can inform you about local conservation efforts
(Example: efforts to improve access to Harold & Wilson Ponds)
6) A local guide can help with transportation
(Example: liability, familiarity with local roads and traffic)
7) A local guide can reduce/avoid delays
(Example: adapting the tour plan when a lengthy rain shower
threatened one location)
Some or all of this may be patently obvious to many people. For
example, my wife seemed to appreciate it well before I did. She's the
one who told me I ought to go ahead and spend some money for a guide.
