Does flash harm birds?

[Bill Coatney]

I tried to see if there is a previous thread on the subject and could not find one specifically for the topic.

Recently on a state listserv, several non photographer birders objected to the use of flash at a popular local park where a bubbler is used an areas as one of the attractions for birds.

One photographer/birder stated that flash was harmful and that the use of flash was a crutch.

He went on to expound that with modern cameras/equipment and proper techinique and proper post processing skills that the use of flash is unnecessary. Essentially he thought that flash is the resort for the unskilled.

One participant in the discussion wanted regulations aimed at only photographers and to ban flash photography at the location.
The location is a popular public park and hosts not only birders, photographers,joggers, skateboarders but folks just out to enjoy a day in a somewhat natural area that is surrounded by a large urban landscape.

The only source that seemed to be based on any scientific date was here http://www.naturescapes.net/042004/do0404.htm

There was also discussions on the use of bird calls etc but the main issue was flash photography

I wondered what the experiences of members of this forum would be regarding this issue.