How to Build a Blind For Wildlife Viewing

Getting Wildlife to Come Closer by Becoming Invisible

Dec 29, 2008

Quiet Approach is Everything, Elizabthps

Even the most seasoned tracker will get closer to wildlife if he waits for the wildlife to come to him. Here are some easy blinds anyone can create.

Hunters and wildlife trackers have stalked their quarry for as long as man has existed. One of the skills experienced wildlife trackers and viewers have honed is the art of blending into the surrounding habitat. Just as tracking or stalking is an active form of getting closer to animals, blending is an inactive form of doing the same.

Blending may sound passive; however, it’s extremely effective for getting up close and personal with the wild animals that spark our curiosity. This is especially true with very shy creatures that never let us catch even the smallest glimpse of them, such as the flying squirrel.

A hiding place created specifically for wildlife viewing, or a ‘blind’, can make a huge difference in checking off the animal species on the viewing list. Creating blinds is easy, and the rewards for an avid wildlife tracker are invaluable.

Making The Blind

When deciding which style of blind to create, consider if it is to be in a permanent place or if it needs to be portable for wildlife viewing in other habitats. Keep in mind; blinds that don't completely hide the viewer require the most patience, and least amount of motion. That goes for taking pictures or using binoculars. It's easier to maneuver these things without startling the animals if you are actually inside a sheltered area.

Brush-Type Structure

12 - 2 x 4 boards – The length of boards will depend on what is works for you to sit inside comfortably, and if you want to make room for two people.
Hammer
Nails
Dead/dried brush, cloth netting or rolled up bamboo.

Nail boards together in a box frame. Then cover it with the brush, cloth netting, bamboo or even muslin.

Tee Pee–Type Structure

Saplings or other cut long branches.
Strong twine or thin rope.

Gathering the bundle of saplings, tie the top together with the twine, and then spread the bottom out in a circular pattern to make a tee pee shape. Depending on how many saplings there are, this may be all you need. However, you can always cover it with brush, rolled up bamboo, or screen cloth. This type is particularly easy to watch for wildlife due to all the ‘holes’ in the blind. Picture taking is easy as well.

Sunflower Structure

Sunflower stalks can be wired together to form a long mat, and then rolled up to be placed in the desired location.

Alternate Ways to Create a Blind

Blinds don’t have to be constructed or be any kind of undertaking at all, for that matter. Just use your imagination.

A thick clump of shrubbery will do, although, some kind of back support is necessary to remain in any quiet position for long.
A tree with very low limbs, and heavy foliage serves well as a blind. Sit with your back against the shady side of the tree to take advantage of the shadows.
A garden tool-house.
A wood shed.
A gazebo with a cloth screen tossed over it.
If a tent is used, place it in the location well in advance to viewing so it becomes ‘naturalized’ to the landscape and the wildlife ignores it.
Your own house will work if wildlife is encouraged to come close with food or running water.
Even your car can be an effective blind. Especially, if the windows are tinted. A big plus for using a car is that everyone has a comfy seat.

Often, in major wildlife viewing areas such as a preserves, regional wilderness', or state parks, you will find permanent blinds already in place for visitors. So, check with the headquarters of the area if you are planning a visit.