Scouting cameras, also known as trail cameras, allow users to photograph wildlife in natural habitats. Scouting cameras use sensor technology, which captures images automatically when sensing movement in front of the camera lens. Traditional scouting camera users have included animal behaviorists and wildlife photographers. Digital scouting cameras have spurred the interest of new users, including hunters. Scouting cameras allow hunters to identify locations where game live and feed, offering information about potential hunting sites.
Camera Positioning
Position scouting cameras facing south or north. Placing a camera facing east or west can create poor-quality images during morning or afternoon hours, when a rising or setting sun can create backlighting conditions. Position the equipment 10 to 20 feet from the area where animals might appear. Capturing a photo up close can often provide more information about an animal's species and its gender and size. When images appear at a distance, the user can adjust the camera's positioning for closer photos. After positioning a scouting camera, spray all equipment and natural areas touched by humans with products designed to eliminate human scent (available at sporting goods stores). Avoid spraying the camera lens, as it can leave a residue, obscuring photos.
Target Area
Scouting cameras typically sense movement up to 20 feet away. Clear any vegetation that can obscure the camera lens. When mounting a scouting camera on a tree, remove or tie back limbs near the camera that might cause an obstruction. Create a target area within the focal range of the camera lens. Clear any tall brush or limbs within the target area that can obstruct the lens. Remove or move any obstacles in the path of animals, causing them to move from the camera frame. Clear an area of approximately 15 to 30 feet in diameter in front of the camera for unobstructed views.
Baiting
Baiting an area can attract more animals and produce better photo results. Strategically position a food plot or feeder in front of the camera lens. Feeders, available at animal supply or sporting goods stores, come in 6- to 55-gallon units, as well as programmable feeders that dispense food at specific times.
Allow Time
Allow the scouting camera to do its job for one week to 10 days before returning to the area. Animals avoid areas where human scent is present. Each time a human returns to the camera area, more scent is left behind. Over time, human scent will diminish, so allowing a camera to remain untouched by a person for several days produces optimal results. Install new batteries when positioning and checking a camera to provide enough power between visits. Scouting cameras typically include a time-stamp function, which includes the date and time of a photo. By setting the camera time stamp correctly, a user can identify an exact time and date an animal appeared in an area.
Tags: camera lens, scouting camera, front camera, human scent, Scouting cameras, cameras allow, cameras typically