Trileigh,

The physiological impact of flash photography on juvenile birds would be
negligible. Avian photoreceptors develop quickly after hatching, but are
fairly resilient to retinal damage (I've seen some pigeon studies but
can't recall the exact reference). Remember also that lightning flashes
can be intense and are perfectly natural.

That said, I wouldn't stand too close or disturb the nest in any way, in
keeping with good birding ethics (ref:
http://www.americanbirding.org/abaethics.htm).

Regards,

Scott Underwood
Bothell, WA
mailto:sjuNO at healthwindSPAM.com

-----Original Message-----
From: TWEETERS-owner at u.washington.edu
[mailto:TWEETERS-owner at u.washington.edu] On Behalf Of Tucker, Trileigh
Sent: Tuesday, June 15, 2004 11:38 AM
To: tweeters at u.washington.edu
Subject: Impact of photographing baby birds?


Hello Tweeters,
First, I wanted to let you know that there is apparently a happy ending
to the story of the robin trapped in an atrium on my campus. Someone put
some water by the door for him, and he seems to have flown out. It was
wonderful to know how many people, both on campus and in Tweeterland,
cared about that little guy! Thanks so much to all who offered advice.
This morning I was walking in Lincoln Park (West Seattle) and came
across baby wrens nestled snugly under some peeling bark. I wanted to
photograph them, but was worried about possible effects of a flash on
their sense of security and possibly their eyes. I took several nonflash
photos but doubt they will come out clearly. Does anyone know whether such
young critters would be harmed by a flash, either psychologically or
physically?
Also, if anyone knows of someone who would be willing to lead a
birdwalk in Lincoln Park, please let me know!

Thanks much,
Trileigh Tucker
Lincoln Park, West Seattle
mailto: tri at seattleu.edu
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