Wildlife photography etiquette is essential when watching and photographing beavers in Elk Island National Park, where respect for the animal and its habitat must always come first. Beavers are most active during the quieter hours of early morning and evening, and approaching them calmly and patiently helps ensure their natural behavior is not disrupted. Maintaining a safe and respectful distance is key; using a telephoto lens allows photographers to capture detailed images without encroaching on the beaver’s space or causing stress. Sudden movements, loud voices, or attempts to get closer for a better angle can alarm beavers and force them to retreat, often ending the opportunity entirely. Remaining still and low to the ground helps you blend into the environment and minimizes your presence along pond edges or lodge sites. It is equally important to stay on designated trails and shorelines, avoiding fragile vegetation and sensitive wetlands that beavers depend on for food and shelter. Feeding or attempting to interact with wildlife is never appropriate, as it alters natural behaviors and can put both animals and people at risk. Ethical wildlife photography also means being mindful of other park visitors, allowing space for shared viewing and keeping the experience peaceful for everyone. By practicing patience, awareness, and restraint, photographers can observe beavers as they go about their work of shaping the landscape. These respectful encounters not only lead to more authentic images but also help preserve Elk Island National Park as a safe haven where wildlife can thrive undisturbed.