An inexpensive portable platform for wildlife observation in the forest canopy

Abstract

Since the 1980s, many canopy access methods have been developed, ranging from light, small and low-cost techniques to large, heavy and expensive ones. Nevertheless, few "low-tech" methods offer comfort and security during wildlife observation in the canopy. Herein, we describe a light portable swing that is quick and easy to install. This swing provides excellent comfort and security conditions and has been used during several hours of bird surveys in the Chilean temperate rainforest canopy.