Solo birdwatching can be a fulfilling and peaceful hobby as you get lost in nature for a while. However, safety is an important consideration when choosing to go alone, particularly for women. Here are some practical tips on how to stay safe and enjoy your time outdoors.
- Communicate Your Plans: Always tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back. Share specifics about your destination, route, and any planned stops along the way. This way, if something goes wrong, someone will know where to start looking for you.
- Stay on Marked Trails: Venture off-trail only if you’re familiar with the area. Staying on marked paths whilst solo birdwatching helps reduce the risk of getting lost or injured.
- Use Find a Friend: Before heading out, consider using apps that allow friends or family to track your location. Services like “Find My Friends” or similar offer an extra layer of security. These apps let your loved ones to know where you, which gives you both peace of mind.
- Stay Hydrated: Always carry plenty of water, especially if you’re planning to spend several hours outdoors. Staying hydrated is essential not only for your health but also for your alertness and energy levels. Dehydration can impair your judgment and decision-making.
- Keep a Personal Alarm Within Reach: A personal alarm can be a small but powerful tool for staying safe. These devices can emit a loud noise to attract attention, deterring any potential threats. Make sure it’s easily accessible so you can quickly reach it if you feel unsafe.
- Consider Red Defence Spray: While weapons can’t be carried legally, personal defence spray can be an effective means of self-defence. They can be help you protect yourself if you feel threatened whilst solo birdwatching. They can also buy you time to escape if needed.
- Utilise Everyday Items for Defence: In the U.K, you can’t legally take anything with you that you intend to use to cause harm. However, some everyday items can be used in self-defense if necessary. A sturdy walking stick, a torch, or even your binoculars can serve as deterrents or tools for escape.
- Carry a First Aid Kit: Accidents can happen, especially in the great outdoors. It’s important to have a basic first aid kit on hand to treat minor injuries like cuts. Make sure your kit includes adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, gauze, and pain relievers. Being prepared can help you manage unexpected situations effectively and safely.
- Trust Your Instincts: Always listen to your intuition. If something doesn’t feel right whilst you’re solo birdwatching, don’t hesitate to leave the area or call for help.
- Join a Community: Consider joining local birdwatching groups or clubs like Birds & The Belles. There’s safety in numbers, and you’ll also get to meet like-minded individuals who share your passion for birdwatching.
Solo birdwatching can be an incredibly rewarding experience, allowing you to connect deeply with nature and watch wildlife closely. By taking precautions and being prepared, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable outing.
Join the conversation! Have you got any top tips for staying safe or any stories from your solo birdwatching adventures? Let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear from you.
Happy birdwatching!