At our December Monthly Meeting, Maynard Davis brought to our attention a recent email sent to MBC from the owner of Lone Oak Farm in Esmont. Said owner had graciously opened his property to local birders but had some concerns about a “sense of entitlement” that he sensed from a few of those visiting birders. Whether or not the birders were actually acting more like “intruders” than “guests,” the owner’s perceptions cannot be denied. The letter below that was sent to us should remind us all to be particularly cognizant of proper birding etiquette, especially when we are tracking our quarry on private property. The owner’s email (with some minor edits) follows.
To: [email protected]
Subject: Lone Oak Farm, Esmont
Good afternoon,
We welcome the birders to Lone Oak Farm, but we do have some concerns. The last 3 or 4 cars that have visited Lone Oak did not seem to understand this is a farm where people live and work. As such, we ask that you let your members be aware of the following requests:
Proceed slowly and cautiously through the housing and barn areas.
Watch out for our children and loose dogs.
Lone Oak is a working farm with dogs, livestock, and machinery; birders enter at their own risk
If approached by one of the family members, birders should introduce themselves and ensure their visit will not impact other farm activities.
As guests visiting a private property, please be courteous and respectful at all times.
Thank you,
Lone Oak Farm Owner
