Do's and Don'ts at The National Parks
Things to remember while visiting a National Park:
Important: Do not forget to carry your regular prescription medication, anti biotics , sunscreen, antiseptic cream/lotions , mosquito / insect repellants, cap/ hat, scarf or muffler, socks and comfortable shoes, good light binoculars, camera with a good zoom , with plenty of extra film rolls, and warm clothing/ jackets, sweaters , layered clothing for winters
- Jeep drivers and Forest guides are given instructions regarding the speed of the vehicle and the designated route to be followed by the Forest Department. They have to maintain a certain distance from each vehicle as well as from wild animals.
- Jungle Safaris --We have to keep to time guidelines regarding the entry and exit from the National Park. Kindly do not ever encourage your driver to break these rules.
- Stay seated in your jeep , most times, especially if you sighting a tiger close by, as the animal may get scared and could attack or strike back in self defense. Be alert at all times, do not make any gestures or noises towards any animal.
- You are not allowed to step out of the jeep, so please do not think of collecting any plants, insects etc…they are at home in their forest, you are in their jungle !
- You need to be extremely quiet and silent if you wish to observe wildlife, the smallest sound or movement at times can disturb them and make them run away, remember very often they are right there looking at you thru the bush ! Needless to say any loud sounds, music, etc are taboo
- Don’t wear bright coloured clothing like reds, oranges- yellow…you might scare away the animals ! wear colours like greens, browns, khaki which blend with the flora and fauna of the forest.
- It is also recommended not to wear any strong perfumes or deodarants as animals have an acute sense of smell, which might arouse their curiosity or scare them.
- Wild animals have their own source of food, so please don’t feed them at all, no crumbs, biscuits, or any left overs from breakfast are to be given .
- Litter needs to be taken care of within the vehicle, at no cost should plastic or polythene bags, tetra packs, camera packets, sweets etc be left or thrown on the ground. They not only spoil the beauty of the jungle but can also cause damage and harm to any animal who might feed on them.
- Animals by nature are shy and scared of humans, do not try to attract them by throwing stones or by making gestures, just take your photos !
- Smoking is a No No in the jungle as well as flash photography, so do be very careful.
- Your suggestions and recommendations are welcome ! You can play an important role in the conservation of the park. Errant drivers should be reported or if you see people violating the rules of the park
"Take only photographs leave only footprints" |
