How can I avoid being mugged while photographing kingfishers?

[Lucio]

Hi there,

I'm 14 years old and I'm interested in photographing a kingfisher I have seen on a local stretch of river. I am planning on setting up a hide to photograph him/her, but am worried about the possibility of being mugged or even worse as I live on the outskirts of London and this stretch of river is opposite a council estate. With expensive camera equipment and being fairly young, I would be somewhat a good target for criminals, I feel and hence my concern. I wondered if anyone had any tips on how I could keep safe???

Thanks,

Lucio.

P.S. I know about Schedule 1 and photographing on or near a nest, so will be careful not to do anything illegal myself and not disturb any pair at this crucial time.

[GTH]

If it`s possible, I would ask an adult to come with you !

If it feels that uncomfortable then it`s saying something to you...take an adult !

...and I wish you well...lets see the results if you go.

Best of Luck

Geoff

[Lucio]

Thanks, Geoff, perhaps I will be able to pursuede one of my parents to come with me (with a great deal of resistance on their part, no doubt!) but it's worth a shot.

Lucio.

[BloomingMarvellous]

I'm sure if your Folks took a peak at this thread in a few days and saw the support you recieve, will maybe change their minds somewhat, good luck Lucio.

[Lucio]

Thanks, BloomingMarvelous, I'm sure you're right. It's lovely to have such supportive, knowledgeable people here on WAB :-)

Lucio.

[Jason Green]

Evening Lucio,

You're wise to be cautious - though I must emphasise these 'threats' aren't just restricted to areas around estates/London

Think about the time you go out - Late afternoon/evenings and weekends I would theorise as having a higher risk. Stay alert, and keep your belongings close by so you don't have to reach out/stand up to pack away before making a quick getaway when your instincts prick-up. Work out three ways of immediately leaving the area, and get to know which path leads where on maps so you don't get lost on exiting! Take a personal attack alarm, as should anyone going somewhere remote just in case - I'm not afraid to say I do! Finally, make sure you tell your parents when you go there and how long you'll be!

Take care,

Jason

[Mike Jackson]

I know it's obvious but take a mobile phone with you and make sure it's charged and got credit.

[Ukwildlifeo]

While by no means certain to keep you safe a very early start should help. My theory goes that most people are more likely to be up late in the evening and so hopefully less likely to be up at first light. This is also a good time for wildlife anyway, unless you live in an area with crazy early dog walkers (round here there up and about half hour before light - lol)

[posie]

If you go alone to such a spot you are asking for trouble..listen to your 'inner man' and be sensible about it....get your Mum or Dad to go with you...and hurry up 'cos we are waiting to see your pics.....Posie..

[Jason Claxton]

Originally Posted by Ukwildlifeo

While by no means certain to keep you safe a very early start should help. My theory goes that most people are more likely to be up late in the evening and so hopefully less likely to be up at first light. This is also a good time for wildlife anyway, unless you live in an area with crazy early dog walkers (round here there up and about half hour before light - lol)

Um...the early start also favoured by thiefs as the time when they are less likely to be spotted.I recommend taking an adult with you(preferably one who owns a Tank!)

Best of luck with it.Jason