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Using blinds

While many types of wildlife can be seen during an early morning hike, some of the best spectacles need a little more planning. Both hunters and professional photographers know you have to be well concealed to catch some of the more unique wildlife viewing opportunities available.

Have you ever tried to see a grouse drumming? Those who have tried know it is impossible to sneak up on an active bird. The best way to solve this problem is to use a blind. It takes some planning. You will first need to locate an active drumming site. This can be done by listening in the early morning and pinpointing a location. Locate the drumming log after the bird has finished for the day. Since courting birds will use the same calling site, you can easily set up a blind to catch the display.

Next, you can either build a natural blind, or set up a tent blind available at many sporting goods stores. If you do not want to spend a lot of money and want to be more mobile, you can simply purchase a length of an appropriate camouflage material and wrap it over your clothes. Do not set the blind too close to the display area. Set it off a distance and plan on using your binoculars to catch the action.

The important thing to remember is that most display activity occurs early in the morning. It is best to get to your blind before daylight so as not to disturb the birds. Then, sit quietly with your cup of hot coffee or chocolate, and enjoy the show.

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