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Camera Trapping 

 

Thinking about doing your own camera trap project? Whether it's in your backyard or the wilderness, here are our favorite tips to help you get started:

  • Look for game trails, small creeks, ridges, tracks, or presence of prey (this will vary depening on what animal you are trying to get on film).

  • Most animals can be found where humans aren't overwhelmingly present and there is a water source close by

  • Make sure there is no tall grass/vegetation that can either set off the camera or block its view

  • Using bait can be helpful. Choose the bait (whether it is a scent or food) based on what animal you are trying to spot

  • Place your cameras north/south so that the sun does not interfere with the photos or video

  • The camera should be 2-10 feet from focal point and 2-6 feet off the ground (determine this based on how high the torso of the animal is). Slightly above the base of a tree is a good starting point

  • Higher quality settings if the cameras can be picked up/charged more frequently and lower quality for less frequent trips

  • Set so motion sensor beam runs along a track, not across, to maximise time period of animal in front of camera and therefore chances of a good quality image

  • Take picture on the camera (or your phone) first, before it is strapped down, in order to determine the correct focal point and angle

  • Get a lock! You don't want your camera and your data stolen by someone passing by 

Examples of camera trapping:  
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