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: Stephanie O'Donnell
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Article
Apply Now: AI for Conservation Office Hours
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Are you stuck on an AI or ML challenge in your conservation work? Apply now for the chance to receive tailored expert advice from data scientists! Applications due 27th January 2023
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Sending real-time alerts from ecological sensors such as camera traps in areas with poor data connectivity is complex and involves integrating a large number of potentially complex hardware and software components. Our...
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| Description | Activity | Replies | Groups | Updated |
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| Hi Ellie, did you compile this information and is it avaiblable somewhere?I need to upgrade the camera system in Baiboosun Nature Reserve Kyrgyzstan and this info would be of... |
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Camera Traps | 2 years 6 months ago | |
| Hi everyone, I seek your help for the choice of my thesis subject, I hold a Master's degree in Management of protected areas and I have... |
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Camera Traps, Data management and processing tools, Protected Area Management Tools, Geospatial | 2 years 7 months ago | |
| No, I was never able to figure out how to send these to anyone on here. I was hoping to learn how to clear these videos up if possible! |
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Camera Traps, Data management and processing tools, Open Source Solutions, Software Development | 2 years 7 months ago | |
| I have recently updated a camera trap app for Android smartphones and I am looking for some real world feedback. The app can be found here... |
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Camera Traps | 2 years 7 months ago | |
| I just came across this interesting paper in which seismic monotoring of animals like elephants was mentioned. This is the study refered to:Cheers,Lars |
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AI for Conservation, Camera Traps, Emerging Tech, Ethics of Conservation Tech, Human-Wildlife Coexistence, Geospatial, Sensors | 2 years 8 months ago | |
| Thanks a lot, @rcz133 ! I will certainly check your blog out (thanks heaps for pointing me in its direction). |
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Camera Traps | 2 years 8 months ago | |
| Hi @LucyHReaserRe I've found a couple of layers or three of athletic/sports tape does the trick. This kind of thing: Good luck,Rob |
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Camera Traps | 2 years 8 months ago | |
| Hi, just wanted to let you know the existence of EcoAssist. It's a no-code interface which makes the use and installation of the... |
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Camera Traps | 2 years 8 months ago | |
| Perfect, thank you so much! |
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Camera Traps | 2 years 9 months ago | |
| This looks like a great spec. Looking forward to seeing final design. |
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Camera Traps | 2 years 9 months ago | |
| Hi Everyone,We chose sigfox becuase it seems to have better range and is plug-play, whereas LoRa requires more custom programming and updating. Getting a gateway cost us $... |
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Animal Movement, Build Your Own Data Logger Community, Camera Traps, Connectivity, Emerging Tech, Sensors | 2 years 9 months ago | |
| Great work, unfortunately, I'm not familiar with programming but computer friendly enough to follow a good tutorial. I was wondering if you will share your findings?Thanks for the... |
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Camera Traps | 2 years 10 months ago |
