Using sightings groups/apps - good or bad?

[4O4-5O4]

Interesting debate.
But may I suggest one views this from a different angle.
On a recent visit to Karoo National Park, we were fortunate to get chatting with one if the SANPark rangers. I asked him about the location of the lions within the park, hoping that he would give us some inside information on where they were as they radio track them and are aware of their location 24 hours a day.

His response was simple. If I tell you, you will tell someone else, and very soon, every vehicle within the park will be rushing to the spot. We dont want that to happen.

Hats off to Karoo National Park for adopting this attitude. In hindsight, I should never even have asked.
For 4 days we looked and looked, and never did find the lion. But, the fun we had looking was far better than simply being told where they are. And the lack of lion sighting did not dampen the trip. Infact, it gives us reason to go back and look for the lions some more. Thats what every Sanpark should be like. Find your own animals. And if you cant, try again next time.

Kruger in my opinion is losing her old charm and her sparkle, and has become too commercialised. Sadly, realtime apps and sighting webpages are adding to her demise.
Traffic jams, road rage, hooting. Nope. Not cool. Try Karoo, and you wont see another car for 7 hours. I promise.

[Carol g]

404 - 504 I absolutely agree with you, looking for your own sightings is far more exciting than been told where they are.

[saraf]

Some of my most feel good moments in Kruger have been when I've seen the joy and excitement on someone's face when I've pointed out a sighting. That's missed with the sightings apps.

[Afriphile]

Totally agree 404-504.
Surely if someone wishes as many easy sightings as possible then go to a zoo.
I'm afraid we now live in a world where we want it all,and we want it now!,,

[Sparrow]

Find your own and the reward is far greater.