Seasonal snaps

Friday 22 November 2024

Heathland Heroes

https://www.facebook.com/worcestershirewildlifetrust

We are creating the county's largest block of heathland and connecting 600 acres of habitat. Our Saving Worcestershire's Heathland's Project Officer, Beccy Somers, brings you the latest news and information from this amazing project.

The Devil's Spittleful by Lydia Rackham

Trail cameras are often used on Dropping Well Farm to capture wildlife on camera. Joe explains how you can do the same in your garden...

Badger on trail camera at Dropping Well Farm

Spotting wildlife can sometimes be difficult, unless you’re particularly eagle-eyed. However, it can be made easier – enter the wildlife camera! We regularly use trail cams on Dropping Well Farm to survey and evidence the species present on site and as a result, we have captured some amazing footage of various kinds of wildlife. Our camera, installed under a crab apple tree on site, frequently captures foxes and badgers making the most of the fruits on offer.

Fortunately, wildlife cameras are becoming cheaper and more accessible, which means that you can also observe the wildlife on your patch. If you are thinking about setting one up in your garden, we have tips and tricks to help you get the best photos.

Each camera is different so remember to read through the instruction manual. When you are ready to set up your wildlife camera, there are some key things to think about:

What is your target species?
Camera position for best lighting
Camera height
Camera angle
Surrounding habitat

To start, you want to think about what your target species is, whether it be a type of bird, fox, deer, hedgehog or other small mammal. Once you have chosen your target species this will dictate the height, location and habitat for the camera.

When positioning the camera, you want it to either be pointing north or south. Doing this will improve visibility throughout the day. You next want to think about your camera height, for this you need to think about what species you are trying to capture. For reference, you want the camera to be positioned just above their main body height and it is best to have the camera angled slightly towards the ground- this will help to reduce overexposure and shadows.

When choosing your habitat, you want to avoid areas with long grass that could trigger the camera by accident. If you are setting it up in your garden, try laying out a bowl of water and some food in the camera field of view. Hopefully some wildlife visitors will follow!