Camera Trapping

Camera traps are remotely activated cameras that are triggered by either motion sensors, an infrared sensor, or uses a light beam. It is a method used for capturing wild animals on film without the researchers having to be present (and therefore altering behaviours). 

Although originally this type of trapping was used in hunting to detect the presence and location of large numbers of game animals, today it is primarily used in research applications including studies of nest ecology, detection of rare species, estimation of population size and species richness, as well as research on habitat use and occupation of human-built structures (such as owl nests etc).

The main benefit of camera traps (also known as trail cameras) is that they can be used to capture images of animals in the wild with as little human interference as possible. In recent decades, with advancements in the quality of camera equipment, this method of field observation has become more and more popular among researchers. Further, this once very expensive form of research has now become relatively affordable.

This week on the reserve I set up a grid of 9 camera traps (300 metres apart) on the side of one of the mountains where a leopard has previously been caught on a camera trap. The cameras will be left out for 4 weeks and checked weekly to ensure the batteries have not run out and the SD cards are not full. I will then bring the cameras in and hopefully there will be some great shots on them, and maybe even a leopard with some cubs! Fingers crossed….I will keep you posted! The picture below shows one of the cameras.