[Helen]

Abandoned nests aren't alway as they appear to be. Some nests are used each year, and to see an empty nest and think it ok, is simply wrong. The birds may well be in the area, and in the process of maintaining the nest for future use.

The best way to keep it in the public eye, is post a large sign saying No nest images, and explaining the reasons why, giving plenty of references. You can't be clearer than that.

It would be interesting to know on what basis the "fors" are basing their argument?

So far, I haven't seen anything that has implied the "yes" people are putting the welfare of the birds first. Please point them out to me if I have overlooked them.

Those against, include A Wildlife Police Office, a rehabilitation person, an experienced birdwatcher, plus people who have a passion for wildlife. Their reasons are first and foremost, the welfare of the bird.

Let's also not forget, that ANYONE can join this site. By that I mean someone who is less than responsible when taking images. Yes folks, it does happen on occasion with forums. That is a downside of running an internet forum. So, if the images are allowed, how on earth does anyone verify that the images were taken responsibly. In short, we can't. It's as simple as that.

To believe that everyone who joins WAB in the future, will adhere to the photography guidelines is, at best, extremely naive, at worse, foolish.