Ranking of the best camera traps for animal observation and protection of private property in 2022

A few years ago, a special device was designed to help hunters, rangers and biologists - a camera trap. The device is a camera combined with a motion sensor. The device takes a picture of a moving target in a certain sector, and then saves the photos on a memory card or sends them to e-mail, phone.

Wide functionality and the emergence of inexpensive models have increased the popularity of camera traps among owners of private houses and summer cottages. They use the device to monitor the housing and the site during their absence. Foresters use the device to track the movements of animals and count them. The forest camera is used in the fight against poaching, when observing the growth of plants. Finding a way to use a camera trap is not a problem, it is much more important to know how to choose and install a device.

Varieties and features of the device

The first models were very simple - they only saved photos on a memory card. To view the footage, I had to periodically visit the installation site, which was not always convenient and possible. The reason why such models are still on sale and in demand is the low price.

Then there were models with a built-in cellular module that sent thumbnail photos to the owner's smartphone via MMS. Thanks to them, it was possible to find out in a timely manner what was happening on the site and take appropriate measures. Modern camera traps send not only a full-size photograph, but also a high-quality video recording. Therefore, the need for a regular visit to the device has disappeared, the owners visit such a device only once every few months to replace the batteries.

Why does the battery last so long? Because the camera trap turns on as soon as a moving object appears in the area, sending images and at the end of shooting. The rest of the time the device is in sleep mode. Popular models are equipped with a useful function - SMS control. To adjust the settings of the camera trap, owners just need to send an SMS message with a specific code to the number of the SIM card inserted into the device. To control the forest camera without leaving it, download a special application compatible with iPhone and Android smartphones.

The technical characteristics of the camera traps are as follows:

• 5 megapixel photomatrix;
• increase the resolution of photos up to 12 or 14 megapixels;
• high quality video with a resolution of 1920 × 1080 pixels.

The camera trap is compatible with a memory card up to 32Gb, which stores hundreds of videos and thousands of images. They can be viewed on the display of the device, TV, computer. Models like the Balever 4G-480L-GPS send footage to E-mail or FTP.

The forest camera is triggered by an infrared motion sensor that is sensitive to temperature changes and the appearance of moving objects (people, animals, heated objects). The operating range is 25-30 meters and depends on the ambient temperature. The warmer the object, the shorter the range.

The sensitivity of the forest camera is adjusted for certain conditions. If you don’t have time to figure out the settings, you can buy KeepGuard camera traps. The manufacturer equipped them with automatic sensitivity adjustment.

To cover more space, choose camera traps with a wide-angle lens. For example, 90◦, 120◦, 200◦. Then, to control the territory, a smaller number of cameras are installed. When thinking about which camera trap is better to buy, you should decide on additional functions:

• auto shooting - the device takes and sends the image after a specified time interval;
• timer - the device turns on and works strictly in a certain period. For example, at 8 am and before 12 noon. Multiple periods can be specified;
• daily report - the owner receives full information in an SMS message about the status of the device, the amount of footage;
• SMS warning about low batteries or device failure.

Since the camera traps are designed for outdoor installation, they are equipped with a moisture-proof and durable housing, resistant to both winter frosts and summer heat. If you purchase a device with MMS/GPRS transmission, you can use them in any country and with a different operator.

The principle of operation and installation of the device

The device wakes up from sleep mode when the motion sensor is triggered, takes pictures and / or records video of a specified duration. The time between object detection and photographing is between 0.4 and 1.2 seconds depending on the models.

The best manufacturers equip camera traps with three sensors: central and 2 side. When motion is detected on the right or left, the sensors give a signal that wakes the device from sleep mode. In the LTL Acorn model, the response time is 0.2 seconds after an object is detected by the central sensor.

At night or at dusk, the camera switches to black and white mode automatically. Models equipped with an infrared flash will turn it on when necessary. It may be visible or invisible. The latter option is more popular because the camera trap remains invisible. Keep in mind that the range of the invisible flash is less.

The device is configured manually or using a computer. Owners of Android smartphones can download a free application to control the forest camera "Android-Monitor". It independently takes pictures and videos, sorts them by time and cameras, allows you to process and send the material.

The purchased camera trap will not be useful if it is installed incorrectly. In this case, you don't need to be surprised by empty frames, blurry shots, or false positives.To avoid unpleasant moments, adhere to the following rules:

• the camera trap is placed on a hard, stable surface;
• on the street, the device is mounted in the direction of the sun, and indoors - away from the batteries. There should be no swinging objects in front of it;
• check the sensitivity level of the PIR sensor. In winter, it should be minimal, and in summer - maximum;
• calculate the distance from the camera trap to the intended object of fixation.

Each hunter or individual has his own criteria for choosing devices, but among the entire range of products, the most popular are devices from companies such as Bushnell, Reconyx, Scoutguard.

Which models are recognized as the best

The rating of high-quality and proven camera traps will help you make a choice based on price or other characteristics.

Photo trap ScoutGuard SG2060-X

One of the best models on the domestic market, which is intended for the organization of environmental activities. The device stands out with an improved CMOS sensor, 20 megapixel camera. Therefore, it is possible to obtain images with a resolution of up to 4320 × 3240 dpi. Video is recorded in high definition fullHD.

The camera trap is compatible with a memory card up to 64 GB, on which the footage is saved in high resolution. The device is controlled manually and with the help of the remote control. The strengths include quick installation, service life of at least 5 years. It is used in the protection of private and public property. Given the parameters of the camera trap, it does not matter how much the model costs. The price is fully justified by the high quality and long service life.

• long-range and powerful infrared illumination;
• powered by 44 or more batteries;
• durable housing protected from external influences;
• modern display.

• not found.

Average price: 13,600 rubles.

Camera trap Reconyx PC900

The premium forest camera is recognized as the fastest equipment. It withstands extreme operating conditions, providing high-quality images. The camera trap tolerates temperature fluctuations from -40 to + 60. The device is equipped with a NO-GLOW system that excludes glow during night shooting.

It can last 12 months offline with 12 AA batteries. Response speed - 0.2 seconds. The camera trap is used by conservation organizations around the world.

• clear pictures and videos;
• inconspicuous work;
• reliability;
• long service life.

• high price.

Average price: 58,000 rubles.

Bushnell Trophy Cam

Forest cameras from Bushnell allow you to monitor the selected area 24 hours 7 days a week. The Essential model has the ability to record sound, a slot for a memory card up to 32 Gb. The manufacturer also offers inexpensive camera traps for protecting private property.

The Wireless model automatically records material to the memory card and sends captured images via MMS and/or e-mail. Response speed from 0.3 seconds.

• recording photos and videos in HD mode4
• additional functions;
• effective work on one set of batteries up to 12 months.

• not found

Average price: 19,800 rubles.

Camera trap "Filin"

Forest cameras, also produced under the SunTek brand, are budget but high-quality.The camera trap is suitable for hunting, observing wild animals and protecting private territory from unexpected guests.

Some models are equipped with MMS and 3G module, thanks to which shooting and photos can be received instantly on a smartphone. The camera trap works with all RF operators, has a viewing angle from 60 to 120 degrees.

• autonomous work at the installation site;
• attractive exterior design;
• high quality night shots.

• not always repairable;
• slow response speed;
• high power consumption.

Average price: 10,500 rubles.

Camera trap LTL Acorn 5210A

A forest camera from a Canadian manufacturer is a multifunctional device that is convenient for observing animals in the wild, as well as for controlling a summer cottage. Night shooting range - 20 meters.

The device is characterized by low power consumption, clear color reproduction. The high resolution of the camera allows you to get high-quality shooting and photos.

• convenient use in different conditions;
• adjustable sensor sensitivity;
• fastening with a special belt and a durable carabiner.

• it will not be possible to send MMS to the phone;
• cannot be controlled by SMS commands.

Average price: 9,900 rubles.

What to look for when choosing

The popularity of models is determined by the price and functions of the device. When purchasing a camera trap, you should find out not only which company is better, but also the technical characteristics. One of the most important is the lens. Because the clarity and duration of the images depend on it.

It will be possible to evaluate the quality of shooting after viewing the images taken.Quality is determined by contrast, resolution, richness and clarity. For shooting at night, it is important to determine the infrared illumination, which provides a black and white or color image. In the first case, the camera works without a flash, and in the second, with a flash, which can scare animals.

The duration of work is another relevant factor when choosing a camera trap. It depends on the type of device, number of batteries and functions. That is, a device without a message transmission function will work longer. Hunters and rangers, taking care of the environment, use rechargeable batteries.

On the shelves of specialized stores or on the network there is a wide variety of camera traps. You will be able to make the right choice if you decide:

• for the purpose of acquisition;
• whether you need to send the captured images;
• desired photo quality;
• flash type;
• interval between battery replacements.

Having specified these points for yourself, you will be able to buy a convenient, understandable and useful device.