Camera traps have been a key part of the conservation toolkit for decades. Remotely triggered video or still cameras allow researchers and managers to monitor cryptic species, survey populations, and support enforcement responses by documenting illegal activities. Increasingly, machine learning is being implemented to automate the processing of data generated by camera traps.
A recent study published showed that, despite being well-established and widely used tools in conservation, progress in the development of camera traps has plateaued since the emergence of the modern model in the mid-2000s, leaving users struggling with many of the same issues they faced a decade ago. That manufacturer ratings have not improved over time, despite technological advancements, demonstrates the need for a new generation of innovative conservation camera traps. Join this group and explore existing efforts, established needs, and what next-generation camera traps might look like - including the integration of AI for data processing through initiatives like Wildlife Insights and Wild Me.
Group Highlights:
Our past Tech Tutors seasons featured multiple episodes for experienced and new camera trappers. How Do I Repair My Camera Traps? featured WILDLABS members Laure Joanny, Alistair Stewart, and Rob Appleby and featured many troubleshooting and DIY resources for common issues.
For camera trap users looking to incorporate machine learning into the data analysis process, Sara Beery's How do I get started using machine learning for my camera traps? is an incredible resource discussing the user-friendly tool MegaDetector.
And for those who are new to camera trapping, Marcella Kelly's How do I choose the right camera trap(s) based on interests, goals, and species? will help you make important decisions based on factors like species, environment, power, durability, and more.
Finally, for an in-depth conversation on camera trap hardware and software, check out the Camera Traps Virtual Meetup featuring Sara Beery, Roland Kays, and Sam Seccombe.
And while you're here, be sure to stop by the camera trap community's collaborative troubleshooting data bank, where we're compiling common problems with the goal of creating a consistent place to exchange tips and tricks!
Header photo: ACEAA-Conservacion Amazonica
Zambian ecologist working to provide data for evidence-based conservation planning and linking rural communities to benefits from wildlife
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Agroecology Geek
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Machine Learning Researcher & Nature Photographer. Building technology for nature conservation at Wildlife Insights.
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Worked as a mechanical engineer for a defence co, then software engineer, then for a research lab specialising in underwater robotics.
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I help conservation scientists spend less time on boring stuff.
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Arribada Initiative
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Wildlife and Conservation Photographer from Portugal living in the UK
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I'm a wildlife ecologist with interests in a range of technology.
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Training Opportunity: HarvardX TinyML Course
edX
30 September 2020 at 12:00am
COVID Cameratrap Comparison Collaboration: Call for Data
25 September 2020 at 05:35pm
Webinar: Advances in Fisheries Electronic Monitoring
SAFET
21 September 2020 at 12:00am
Meet the Scientists of Black Mammalogists Week!
Black Mammalogists Week
10 September 2020 at 12:00am
Tech Tutors: Review Session
WILDLABS Team
3 September 2020 at 12:00am
Model Question: Bushnell Trophy Cam HD Low-Glow 119719CW
27 August 2020 at 05:18am
2 September 2020 at 03:17am
Hi Juan,
Thank you for your reply. Finger cross that the model we are buying can operate in hybrid mode. We currently use Trophy Cam Agressor 119776 and 119774, and both can shoot in hybrid mode. I can actually find a manual for these two models to confirm this functionality.
And good to know about the delay. We've been quite lucky thus far with the two models above. Typically, I notice the lag hovers around 1 sec only.
Have a nice day!
Best wishes,
22 September 2020 at 12:06pm
Just in case anyone out there who's wondering the same as I did. I finally have this specific model in hand, and no it doesn't record in hybrid mode.
Stereoscopic Camera Project
24 August 2020 at 01:02pm
24 August 2020 at 01:21pm
Should have posted this up first, but here's an earlier case prototype that I quickly put together to test its durability outside in the elements. It worked quite well, even when raining. Always save your old compost bags, very useful for waterproofing things (unless they have those tiny holes in!)
28 August 2020 at 03:43pm
This is awesome, Tom! I think it would definitely be really helpful for individual identification of animals, as the 3D would give you a better perspective on distinctive markings, coloration, size, etc.
29 August 2020 at 12:25am
Thanks Carly! I was thinking similar things, you can identify shape a lot better when you see an object with depth rather than without.
The two cameras can be configured to be a long distance apart or closer together too which means animals right up close or really far away can be identified easier. It also means that you can have the vision of a mouse or an elephant .. or a lemur!
Designing a Camera Mount with FLIR and WWF
Ashley Rosen
24 August 2020 at 12:00am
31 August 2020 at 12:43am
Hi
I don´t know about that specific model number, but all "modern" Bushnell's I've seen had that option. But have in mind that after the picture the camera needs some time to start the video, sometimes up to 9 seconds, which for many animals might be excesive. In my case working with carnivores in the high Andes, we missed most of the videos.
Maybe they improve on this, the experience I'm mentioning was with a model bought two years ago named Bushnell Trophy Cam Aggressor (Low-Glow), 36 LEDs 14MP (I don't know the model number).
I hope it helps.
Bests