Picking flowers, leaves or edible plants may seem like a harmless act, but the cumulative effect of many people doing so may become quite damaging. Enjoy an occasional edible plant, but leave plenty for birds and animals. Avoid disturbing wildlife. Respect for others includes wildlife. As visitors to these areas, we must be aware of how our presence affects animals.
Most animals react with alarm when approached by humans.
Such reactions are stressful and cause the animal to expend energy in order to get away. For a sow grizzly bear with cubs or a moose with calves, a distance of 200 yards can be dangerously close. Observe wildlife from a distance with high-powered cameras or binoculars and give wildlife the right of way on game trails even if it means changing your route. Although a single experience may not affect an animal to a large degree, multiple or prolonged disturbances can be detrimental to the animal's health. Repeated disturbances may cause wildlife to completely avoid an area that offers the best food or nesting sites.