Questions on Black Grouse at the lek

[FUDGEY]

After hours of driving I finally found a lek yesterday and I intend to photograph it next weekend weather permitting. Just a few questions regarding them if any one can help. I have did a bit of work finding out as much as I can, but would like to know a little more. I am planning being set up at 3am well before first light and wont be leaving until the display is over, usually 2 hours after dawn I believe??? Can any one tell me how close I should be setting my hide up with out causing disturbance? Is it legal even to do so? Also any other tips/advice would be welcome, thanks in advance.

[Hobjob]

One of the legal experts will be along soon I expect.

I went on an RSPB trip in Scotland a couple of years back - they took the van to about 600m on a ridge loooking down on the lek, then crept down after a bit, and round a corner we came across some more show-offs about 200m away.

It was blowing a gale and some snow, the van was hot so lenses kept misting, I was in a middle seat, and we were not allowed out when close; so photos at best were 'record' shots only.

My guess is that what you plan will upset someone, so get permission if possible You don't want another close up experience with a wild woman

(NO hyphen)

Originally Posted by FUDGEY

After hours of driving I finally found a lek yesterday and I intend to photograph it next weekend weather permitting. Just a few questions regarding them if any one can help. I have did a bit of work finding out as much as I can, but would like to know a little more. I am planning being set up at 3am well before first light and wont be leaving until the display is over, usually 2 hours after dawn I believe??? Can any one tell me how close I should be setting my hide up with out causing disturbance? Is it legal even to do so? Also any other tips/advice would be welcome, thanks in advance.