Responsible observation

Observe first. Leave no disturbance.

1. Use your own photograph. Do not copy online images or submit someone else’s work without permission.
2. Record what you actually observed. Include a valid date, general locality and habitat. Mark uncertainty honestly.
3. Keep wildlife safe. Do not capture, chase, feed, damage habitats or move organisms for photographs.
4. Protect sensitive locations. Keep nesting sites, dens and precise locations out of the photograph and notes.
5. Respect people and property. Get permission where needed and avoid uploading recognisable people or private documents in observations.
6. Expect review. A reviewer may request more evidence, retain a broad identification or decline unsuitable submissions.
7. Compete responsibly. Follow the specific competition rules. One strong documented observation is worth more than repeated uploads.