5 POINTS FOR BUDDING FIELD CONSERVATION WORKERS

1. Read the Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and the Forest Conservation Act, and Biodiversity Act thoroughly before embarking on any forest related serious careers or conservation crusades.  Get well versed with these laws systematically and completely (do I have to emphasize more?).
2. Get accustomed to your subjects, the terrain and the equipment you will use fully. DO NOT be a liability to the team or the field staff. IGNORANCE will have to pay with a price.
3. Respect local knowledge and local authority. I have noticed a new breed of wildlife enthusiasts who seldom pay heed to advice by forest guards and watchers, and ridicule local guides. Conservation science has to be all-inclusive if you are interested in long term genuine work in the area. Learn to listen more and one will go a long way. Our foot soldiers of the forest are assets to the conservation movement in the country.
4. Photography is a tool. Use it wisely. Do not use to disturb wildlife or its habitat.  And do not compromise your own safety and that of your team for the sake of a picture. NO one “likes” it…and it is unnecessary.
5. A handful of lucky folk get to visit wildlife habitats, do trails and spend time with conservation biologists, ecologists and field activists. Make the most of it. Remember every ‘trip’ that you make also has an impact on the habitat and if it can’t be justified it aren’t worth it.