Securing your camera trap (on a student’s budget!)
Student Spotlight - Kenneth Hillock
Cheap security for your expensive camera by Kenneth Hillock, Wildlife and Conservation Management (BSc) Undergraduate, SRUC Aberdeen Campus, 2024
Photo by K.Hillock/C.Wood 2024
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide on how to secure your camera trap:
Photo by K.Hillock/C.Wood, 2024
Materials: (Approx cost £17 for 6 securing straps)
5mm Steel wire (20m)
U-bolts suitable for 5mm wire (x6)
Insulation tape
8mm spanner
Safety gloves
Safety First: Before starting, make sure to put on your safety gloves to protect your hands from potential cuts or scratches.
Measure and Cut the Wire
Measure the steel wire according to the size of the object (like a tree or post) where you’ll be securing the camera trap. Mark where you want to cut with some insulating tape.
Photo By K.Hillock/C.Wood 2024
Use the saw to cut the wire to the desired length.
The insulation tape will help to stop the ends fraying.
Photo by K.Hillock/C.Wood 2024
Set up your camera on your tree or post
Thread the steel wire through your camera securing points
Secure the Wire
Wrap the wire around the object where you’re placing the camera trap. Make sure it’s secure.
Thread the Wire Through the U-Bolts
Thread the cut wire through the U-bolt. The U-bolt should be suitable for 5mm wire.
Photo by K.Hillock/C.Wood 2024
Tighten the U-Bolt
Use the 8mm spanner to tighten the U-bolts, securing the wire in place.
Photo by K.Hillock/C.Wood 2024
Photo by K.Hillock/C.Wood 2024
Remember, the goal is to make sure your camera trap is secure and not easily noticeable or accessible. This method is relatively cheap and should help deter theft or tampering. Always check local regulations and permissions before setting up a camera trap.
Happy wildlife watching!