Conservation & Ethics
Observation should never come at the cost of the observed. These principles guide how we watch, share, and protect the wildlife around us.
Our guiding principles
Watch with care, act with respect
Every decision we make — where we place a camera, how we share a sighting, when we intervene or step back — reflects our relationship with the natural world. These principles ensure that relationship is one of stewardship, not exploitation.
Principle one
Non-interference
The goal of observation is understanding, not control. Wildlife should be free to behave naturally without disruption from cameras, lights, sounds, or human presence. Observation works best when it is invisible to the observed.
- Place cameras at a respectful distance that does not alter animal behavior
- Avoid using flash, infrared floods, or audible alerts near active nests
- Never bait, lure, or manipulate wildlife to create observation opportunities
- Resist the urge to intervene in natural processes like predation or weather exposure
- Allow animals to choose your habitat freely rather than trapping or confining them
- Minimize visits to camera sites during sensitive periods like nesting and denning
Principle two
Privacy considerations
Outdoor cameras observe more than wildlife. Thoughtful placement and responsible data handling protect both the animals and the people in your surroundings. Privacy is a shared responsibility.
- Aim cameras at your own property and natural areas, not neighboring spaces
- Be aware of local regulations regarding outdoor camera placement and recording
- Do not share footage that incidentally captures people without their consent
- Review captured content before sharing publicly to ensure only wildlife is featured
- Use signage when cameras may be visible to visitors or passersby
- Store and manage observation data securely with appropriate retention periods
Principle three
Responsible observation guidelines
Responsible observation means thinking about the long-term wellbeing of the species and habitats you are watching. Every observer is also a steward.
- Prioritize habitat quality over observation convenience when making placement decisions
- Use native plants and natural materials when building or enhancing habitats
- Keep feeders and water sources clean to prevent disease transmission
- Report injured or distressed wildlife to local rehabilitation organizations
- Share species sightings with community science platforms to support broader research
- Avoid sharing exact locations of sensitive species like nesting raptors or rare amphibians
Principle four
Sharing with intention
Sharing what you observe inspires others and builds community. But sharing should be done thoughtfully, with the welfare of wildlife and the privacy of people always in mind.
Protect Locations
Avoid geotagging or revealing precise coordinates of sensitive nesting sites, dens, or breeding areas. General descriptions protect wildlife from disturbance.
Verify Before Sharing
Review footage and images before posting publicly. Ensure no people, license plates, or private property details are unintentionally included.
Inspire, Don't Exploit
Share stories that foster appreciation and stewardship. Avoid sensationalizing animal distress or using wildlife content purely for attention.
Our commitment
Conservation is not a feature. It is the foundation.
Everything about EverydayEarth is built around the belief that observing wildlife should leave it better off, not worse. We design our tools, our guidance, and our community around the principle that the animals come first.
Observe with confidence and care
Start your observation journey knowing that every choice is guided by respect for the natural world.