Do′s and Don′ts | Forest and Environment Department,Government of Gujarat

Do's and Don'ts

Code of Conduct

Take strict precautions to guard against forest fires caused through carelessness.
Avoid any form of pollution within the sanctuary whether of air, soil or water including the flora and fauna.
Keep a reasonable distance from all animals. Stay at a safe distance especially from an wild animals. Disturbed animals may be provoked to attack.
Do not go near a nest. An alarmed bird can damage the eggs to be hatched
Do not get out of the vehicle while watching wildlife.
Treat the sanctuary with respect. It is the sanctum sanctorum of nature. If you are in a vehicle, bear in mind that the wild animals have the right of way in the sanctuary. Transistors, tape-recorders and loud conversations are taboo in the sanctuary.
Dress in colors that blend with the forest. Khaki, brown or olive green will be just right.
Make full use of local guides and tribals. They are likely to be illiterate, but, that only means they have had more time for learning about the jungle and the creatures and plants therein.
Although shooting with a rifle is prohibited, "shooting" with a camera is fully encouraged
Make checklists of creatures observed on a trip. Make your own simple notes which you can easily compare from trip.
Make the most of your trip. Learn a little more of the world you are part of.
Use of horns, fast driving, smoking in summer, campfires, harassing of animals and consumption of alcohol is prohibited.
Firearms and pets are strictly forbidden.

Do's

Check timings of entries with local staff and stick to schedule. Any entry otherwise timings is treated as trespass in protected areas and may invite action.
Keep various important related literatures and other articles, like information booklet of the area, identification book(s) of birds and animals, camera and binoculars etc. with you.
Drive vehicles at slow speed.
Use dustbins.
Observe the instructions of Forest Officials and those contained in the information booklet supplied to you.
The prior briefing and interaction with local staff makes your visit and stay more enjoyable and informative.
When out to observe wild life, as a rule Khaki or olive-green or brown clothing would be suitable. White or bright colors are too conspicuous and tend to scare animals. Long trousers are usually worn.
Comfortable walking shoes such as sport shoes are advisable.
Always carry back your left-over.
Move with registered guide
Use biodegradable material
Book in advance for accommodation in forest rest houses to avoid disappointment

Don't

Smoking and igniting fire is prohibited in National Parks and sanctuaries and not desirable in other forest area.
Use of poly-bags are not desirable in forest area.
Blowing of horns and playing transistors, without ear phones and excessive noises disturb and scare away wildlife.
Getting out of the vehicle will endanger your life as well as disturb animals.
Do not spoil the serene and environmentally sacred National Parks, sanctuaries and other forests by throwing and littering the area with garbage.
Avoid littering on forest floor
Avoid teasing of wild animals
Avoid use of perfumes or strong smelling chemical
Do not carry arms
Do not indulge in immoral activities
Do not wear clothes with vibrant colors