The Basics of Using Remote Cameras to Monitor Wildlife

L andowners are often interested in monitoring wildlife on their property for a variety of reasons , some of which are the observation of wildlife and the identification of problem animals. Additionally , landowners may want to assess the effectiveness of habitat management plans by monitoring various wildlife species' responses. Some animals, such as songbirds, are easily seen and heard, but many animals are secretive or nocturnal, making them difficult to detect. To determine the presence of hard-to-see animals, landowners must often use indirect methods such as identifying tracks, scat, or burrows. Fortunately, new technology such as remote cameras can assist in the identification of hard-to-view wildlife species (Fig. 1). Figure 1. A coyote, typically an animal difficult to observe, " captured " by a remote camera.