Using motion-detection cameras in a college ecology course

 

Abraham J. Bernal, Michelle Hilton, et al.

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2007, Volume 28

Abstract

Wildlife experiences are rare in college biology programs due to the lack of facilities for housing animals, concerns about rabies and other animal-borne diseases, and animal welfare issues. For several years, students at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford have been introduced to wildlife ecology using artificial nest experiments that investigate this question: Does nest predation differ on forest edges compared to forest interiors? These experiments provide hands-on data collection on local mammals but avoid any direct contact between humans and the animals. This spring, the artificial nest experiment was revised to include motion detection cameras next to the nests to allow identification of predators. These infrared cameras (also called “stealth cameras” or “scouting cameras”) are used by hunters to identify areas where wild game animals are active. Four of the cheapest digital stealth cameras available (about $70 a piece) were purchased, and mounted on trees in pairs; one immediately adjacent to a forest edge and one placed more interior to the forest edge. Animals were baited to the cameras by nests (plastic bowls) and artificial “eggs” containing a flour and lard mixture. Nests were set out in February in weather varying from snowy to sunny and 15°F to 50°F. The cameras captured pictures of blue jays, squirrels, raccoons and deer visiting the nests, and students graphed the presence of animals at edge versus “interior” nests. The cameras generated much excitement among the students, and forced them into the scientific literature on nest predation, edge effects, and artificial nest experiments.

Keywords:  predation

Purdue University (2006)