Wildlife observation in the PACA region takes place within a landscape of exceptional ecological value but high human pressure. Many species of interest occur outside protected areas, often in habitats where continued access depends on discretion, restraint and respect for land use.

This code sets out the expectations for responsible field practice. It applies equally to casual observation, photography and biological recording.

1. Disturbance and Seasonal Sensitivity

Avoid disturbance at all times, with particular care during biologically sensitive periods.

Breeding seasons for birds, amphibians and reptiles generally extend from early spring through early summer, varying with habitat and altitude. During this period, even brief or repeated disturbance can result in nest abandonment, reduced breeding success or displacement from suitable habitat.

In open wetlands, steppe, islands, cliffs and alpine terrain, disturbance can occur at considerable distance. Any visible change in behaviour — alert posture, alarm calls, flushing, repeated movement or vigilance — indicates that you are disrupting the status quo and should retreat further.

2. Nesting Sites, Roosts and Refugia

Do not approach nesting birds, breeding colonies, roost sites, den sites or basking reptiles.

Photography, prolonged observation or attempts to confirm breeding status must never take precedence over the welfare of the species involved. Apparent tolerance does not imply absence of impact; repeated disturbance can have cumulative effects even where individuals remain present.

Avoid revisiting sensitive sites repeatedly, particularly those supporting small, isolated or declining populations.

3. Photography and Image Acquisition

Wildlife photography carries a heightened risk of disturbance and requires additional restraint.

• Do not photograph nests, breeding behaviour or dependent young.
• Do not use playback, baiting, flushing or habitat manipulation.
• Do not position yourself in a way that alters access routes, feeding patterns or escape behaviour.

In PACA’s heavily visited landscapes, photographic exposure can rapidly increase pressure on sensitive sites. The pursuit of an image does not justify behavioural change, repeated disturbance or site disclosure.

No image is worth compromising conservation outcomes.

4. Access, Land Use and Movement

Respect all access restrictions, private land boundaries and working agricultural areas.

Much of the region’s biodiversity is associated with active land use, including grazing systems, irrigation networks, forestry and coastal management. Access to these areas is often informal and based on tolerance rather than right.

Remain on existing tracks and paths wherever possible. Creating informal paths, shortcuts or repeated trampling contributes to erosion, vegetation loss and habitat degradation, particularly in dry Mediterranean soils and alpine environments where recovery is slow.

5. Information Sharing and Disclosure

Refrain from publicising precise locations of sensitive or locally scarce species.

This applies especially to breeding sites, winter roosts and small or newly established populations. Public disclosure can rapidly lead to increased disturbance, repeated visits and long-term site degradation.

Responsible observation includes knowing when not to share information publicly. Discretion is an essential conservation tool in a region with high population density and recreational use.

6. Ethical Priority

Wildlife observation is secondary to conservation.

No record, photograph or personal experience justifies avoidable disturbance or risk to species or habitats. Ethical restraint, ecological literacy and local awareness are defining attributes of credible field practice in Provence–Alpes–Côte d’Azur.