Questions

So here I am, preparing to get flamed, but...

I really want to get into wildlife photography. I know two other wildlife photographers in my area and they both bait. Until I started to view this forum it never occurred to me that it could cause issues with the animals, just seemed like a free dinner. Now I am starting to think differently. It is legal to bait in NH provided you have an easily obtained permit.

Now I am curious to hear the thoughts of experienced guys here on this forum.

I've never baited wildlife myself. I guess for me it would depend on what the animal is. Putting out corn for deer is one thing...baiting predators could get them too used to humans, which could get them dead. I would never bait a bear, that's for sure...it's a death sentence for them to associate food with humans.

I'd say, when in doubt, don't. Unless you really know what you're doing, you can end up endangering the animal you're baiting. Maybe I'm overly cautious, idk. I believe buying seed balls for small birds is usually quite harmless, tho.

These two guys that you know - what kinds of animals are they baiting?

Other than using birdseed for songbirds, I don't think the use of bait is necessary. Most animals will eventually give you opportunities if you learn their habits and spend a lot of time at it.

Have you considered using bait yourself? If so, what species were you thinking of baiting?

They bait for deer, bear, bobcat, etc. It is actually legal in the state of NH to bait deer and bear for the purposes of hunting provided a permit has been issued by the state.

I had considered baiting as well but after reading around on this forum and in other places I am re-thinking it. Possibly putting an animal in harms way so I can get a photo is the only thing I would be able to think of when I look at the photo