iBirdSongs™: Accessories
We are always on the lookout for accessories to make the iPod® a better field tool for birders and bird watchers. We offer a number of accessories that we've found in the Accessories section of the iFieldGuides Online Store.
iPod® Cases
It is important to protect your iPod® from bumps, scratches, and the elements when you are using it in the field. We have come up with a great case for the iPod® that provides good protection from bumps and scratches, and a certain degree of water resistance. Best of all it provides protection while still being stylish and ergonomic.
Mobile Speakers for Personal Playback
Playback of bird songs using speakers can be detrimental to birds and disturbing to birders. Use playback responsibly around birds and birders!
We know some of you may choose to use playback for attracting birds and we will strongly warn against doing so when it may negatively impact birds (e.g., when birds are nesting, when birds are feeding young, when birds are otherwise stressed, in areas frequently visited by birders, etc.), where it is prohibited, and where other birders may overhear the playback.
Playback is specifically addressed by the American Birding Association's "Principles Of Birding Ethics" with the following paragraph:
Limit the use of recordings and other methods of attracting birds, and never use such methods in heavily birded areas, or for attracting any species that is Threatened, Endangered, or of Special Concern, or is rare in your local area.
Note that the ABA principles say "limit the use of recordings ... [for] attracting birds." Playback for attracting birds, if used at all, should be used judiciously.
Using an iPod with earbuds is low-impact since it doesn't disturb birds or other birders, and there are situations where this is the only responsible option (see above). However, using earbuds in the field can be inconvenient. Earbuds interfere with hearing what's going on around you, and having an earbud ripped from your ear when the cord snags on something is not a pleasant experience. If you are birding with a group, sharing your bird songs using earbuds is neither convenient nor hygienic.
An alternative to earbuds is an external speaker as long as it is used responsibly (again see above). The challenge is to come up with options that are convenient and affordable. A cumbersome speaker would negate the convenience of the compact iPod. Cords are susceptible to snagging on branches and getting damaged. What's needed is a way to carry the iPod, external speaker, and cord so that they don't get lost, or get in the way, but so that they are readily available when you want to use them.
Visit the Accessories section of the iFieldGuides Online Store.