Every moment you spend at the Great Swamp is an opportunity to encounter animals — birds, insects, reptiles, and other types of creatures — seen and unseen. The most important thing to remember is that this is their home and they have a right to live in the Great Swamp unthreatened.
One of the joys of the Great Swamp is the chance to commune with nature and watch creatures as they go about their busy days foraging, hunting, playing, and making the ecosystem harmonious by their existence. As you watch and wait to see wildlife at the Great Swamp, remember a few tips that will help you co-exist peacefully.
Don’t attempt to touch.
Animals in the Great Swamp are not domesticated and will become highly alarmed if you attempt to touch them. If you catch and hold them, they may injure themselves while trying to escape.
Don’t chase.
Again, these animals are wild. They are either hunting or being hunted and may react violently or recklessly when chased.
Stay quiet and calm.
If you want to photograph creatures, the best idea is to find a hidden spot where you won’t disturb wildlife or harm vegetation. Sit still, breathe slowly, and wait for the perfect chance to see an animal and take a photo.
Don’t use flash.
Using a camera with flash scares animals and can temporarily blind them, leaving them open to predators.
Be cautious.
Stay away from animals that are known to be aggressive. Beavers, bears, reptiles, large birds, and many other creatures are known to be aggressive when faced with a human encroaching on their territory. Be well-versed on best actions to take should you encounter an aggressive animal.
Be aware of your surroundings at all times.
Always be aware of your surroundings. Use your time in the Great Swamp to relax and take it all in, but remember the Great Swamp is home to snakes, insects, spiders, and even poison ivy, thorny shrubs, and other possible surprises for the uninformed or unaware.
