Ethics 
It is entirely appropriate to begin with this section, as the guiding rule of 
wildlife photography is that ffie welfare of the subject must come first. 
The Middle East has some harsh and demanding conditions, in particular 
some extremely high temperatures. Birds and especially nestlings can 
easily become heat stressed. 
Experienced nest photographers should be all right; but if you are not 
experienced and come across an apparently suitable nest, you would be 
best to leave it alone. By the time you have realised that the adults have 
not accepted your activities, the nestlings could be badly heat stressed or 
even dead. 
Similarly, each spring and autumn the Middle East is a vital crossroads 
for a huge migration. These journeys are very demanding, and tired 
migrants should not be harrassed. 
Remember also that your activities could alert local hunters, who were 
previously imaware of the birds' presence. I have invariably found locals 
helpful and friendly. It is worth repaying any kindnesses, perhaps by 
sending prints of your best efforts. This will make life easier for 
photographers who come after you , and is doubly worthwhile if you 
plan to revisit the area. 
Red-throated Pipit, Eilat, Israel, November 1985. Taken from inside a cardboard 
box (Photograph Paul Doherty) 
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