Learn about local animals with these outdoor wildlife cameras
Our gardens can be home to a whole host of native wildlife. From birds and hedgehogs to squirrels, foxes, butterflies and badgers. However, it can sometimes be tricky to catch a glimpse of them, particularly if they're nocturnal. But that's where an outdoor wildlife camera can come in handy.
These specially designed cameras are intended to be set up outdoors, with them either being contained in – or made from – robust, weatherproof materials. Allowing you to capture photos and videos of any visitors to your garden, many also come in camouflaged cases to be as unobtrusive as possible.
Essentially, they last as long as their charge, with solar-powered options allowing you to power them without having to worry about changing the batteries or charging. With most working in low light and complete darkness, as well as daylight, the majority have motion sensors or are triggered by heat, meaning that they will start filming or taking some snapshots as soon as something passes by or through.
And it's no surprise that sales of outdoor wildlife cameras have boomed in recent years — perhaps due to popular television programmes like Springwatch or the surging interest in wildlife conservation and the great outdoors. Either way, "a wildlife camera is an incredible way to bring wildlife closer to us and deepen our understanding and connection with wild animals which are often rare to spot," Forestry England, who care for more than 1,500 English forests, told Country Living.
"The video and pictures show fascinating animal behaviour and help people engage with and understand species better.” It's also a great way to help children learn about local species and the importance of protecting them.
While a wildlife camera can be used in both private gardens and on public land, it's best to avoid areas where people are likely to be captured on film for privacy reasons.
But, if you've ever been curious about the animals and wildlife that visit your garden throughout the day or overnight, we've put together some of our top wildlife camera picks below.
How to set up a wildlife camera
Ensure the camera is charged and has enough memory to capture new images and videos.
When choosing a spot, think about what animal(s) you are likely to see and the best height and position for your filming equipment. Ideally, place it around the eye level of your intended subject.
Set the camera up on a sturdy tree or fence in a clear area — plants and branches waving in the breeze or wind may trigger it. Ensure it’s secure so it won’t get knocked over or moved in bad weather.
Do not risk disturbing or harming animals by putting the device too close to them.
When positioning the camera, be careful not to damage the natural habitat, flora or fauna.
Collect the camera during the day so you’re less likely to disturb nocturnal animals like badgers and foxes.
Tom Hibbert, content officer at The Wildlife Trusts, stresses the importance of not disturbing the animals that you’re trying to film. “Their welfare should always come first,” he said. “The more you know about your intended subject before you place your camera, the less likely you are to disturb it — and the more likely you are to get quality photos or footage.”
Tom says it’s also important to familiarise yourself with wildlife legislation. For example, you can’t put a camera in a bird's nest if there are eggs or chicks in it, as it could lead to abandonment. Interfering with some animals, including nesting barn owls and badgers, is also a criminal offence.
What else to consider before putting up a wildlife camera
Anyone wanting to use a wildlife camera in their woodland should first contact their local forestry district to discuss their plans.
If you plan to use the equipment on private land that is not yours, seek the landowner’s permission first.
If you plan to use it on public land, ensure that no one's privacy will be compromised.
Do wildlife cameras need Wi-Fi?
Yes, a wildlife camera needs Wi-Fi — it's best to connect it to your home network, so you can view the footage on your computer or mobile device.
How to attract wildlife into your garden
When it comes to actually attracting more wildlife into your garden, there are a few changes that you can make. But it all really stems from rewilding your outdoor space. Something as simple as letting the grass grow — even if it's just a section of your garden — can provide shelter for wildlife, however big or small.
You'll also want to avoid using pesticides and fertilisers, while bigger projects such as installing or building a pond, not only provides more habitat but also give birds and insects access to water to drink all year round.
And, of course, you can leave food and shelter out to entice animals, insects and birds into your garden and make it a place that they want to return to.
You'll be capturing them on your wildlife camera in no time...
The best wildlife cameras to unleash your inner explorer
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