This week’s blog post is written by Makayla, a Bucktails alumna and monthly correspondent. If you’re wondering about a safe and easy way to observe wildlife right in your backyard, Makayla has some tips for you!
You have been hiking in the woods all day. It is a lovely day, but where is the wildlife? Sometimes it seems like all of the creatures in the wilderness have disappeared. Did they really vanish? One way to find out is to put up a trail camera. If set up correctly, it is the perfect scouting buddy. First, you need to do a little research. Find a camera that fits your needs and preferences.
A proper trail camera setup is critical. First, find the perfect location. This would be an area where you find signs or evidence of wildlife. For instance, look for tracks and trails (the ideal trail would lead to a food or water resource). Next, follow these tips for setting up your trail camera. Make sure your camera is not facing directly into the sunrise or sunset. Also, if placing a camera on a trail, orient it at a 45-degree angle to the trail instead of head on. By doing this you increase the trigger time, which should give you a better photo of the entire animal. Check and make sure that the background of the photo is not too busy. Lastly, hang your camera up high (height depends on location and wildlife species). Place a stick crossways between the camera and the tree, tipping the lens so it shoots downwards. You’ll get a better view of the animal, and he or she will be less likely to spook from the flash.
I love checking my trail camera. You never know what you might get a picture of. Do some more research and adjust your setup as you go. Just have fun with it!
I couldn’t believe that I got a picture of a bobcat. Talk about luck!
This a picture of a fisher. This surprised me when I was looking through my pictures.
My dad and I were trying to see what bucks were in the area. Then we came across this picture!
Where Did All the Wildlife Go?
Posted: June 13, 2016 by Academy Director
This week’s blog post is written by Makayla, a Bucktails alumna and monthly correspondent. If you’re wondering about a safe and easy way to observe wildlife right in your backyard, Makayla has some tips for you!
You have been hiking in the woods all day. It is a lovely day, but where is the wildlife? Sometimes it seems like all of the creatures in the wilderness have disappeared. Did they really vanish? One way to find out is to put up a trail camera. If set up correctly, it is the perfect scouting buddy. First, you need to do a little research. Find a camera that fits your needs and preferences.
A proper trail camera setup is critical. First, find the perfect location. This would be an area where you find signs or evidence of wildlife. For instance, look for tracks and trails (the ideal trail would lead to a food or water resource). Next, follow these tips for setting up your trail camera. Make sure your camera is not facing directly into the sunrise or sunset. Also, if placing a camera on a trail, orient it at a 45-degree angle to the trail instead of head on. By doing this you increase the trigger time, which should give you a better photo of the entire animal. Check and make sure that the background of the photo is not too busy. Lastly, hang your camera up high (height depends on location and wildlife species). Place a stick crossways between the camera and the tree, tipping the lens so it shoots downwards. You’ll get a better view of the animal, and he or she will be less likely to spook from the flash.
I love checking my trail camera. You never know what you might get a picture of. Do some more research and adjust your setup as you go. Just have fun with it!
Category: Youth Blog Tags: nature observation, wildlife, youth