Game camera tips

Camera security

• These small high dollar items are a prime target for would be thieves.
• We have really worked on this problem. In some cases we have used the camouflage tape used for archery and such to disguise the appearance of the cameras.
• The most effective method is to use the small bungee cords (I found them in Home Depot) around the camera and just use the vegetation you have cleared away from in front of the camera to disguise it from view. When doing this be careful not to have any of the cords or vegetation covering any of the sensors or lenses.
• In real problem areas we chose to use a well disguised camera to watch another camera.
• Good locking devices and camera cages are a must. Most of the manufactures have a security box that can be purchased to fit the camera.
• In the cases where a locking cage was not available we built our own. We prefer cables over chain because they are a little harder to cut with a bolt cutter.
• When you unpack your new camera in preparation to take it to the woods, take the time to record the serial numbers and scratch in an identifying name or number so if lost those numbers can be reported to the authorities.
• Camouflage:  Camouflage your camera with camo tape and twigs and cedar branches. Be careful not to get twigs and material in front of the lens of PIR

Batteries and solar panels

• Over the years we have tried all brnads of alkaline batteries and have in recent years settled on rayovac brand.
• This process becomes extremely expensive when several cameras are involved. The use of the NIMH 4500 mAh (as a minimum) rechargeable batteries is a better answer. They are a little less in voltage but all our cams work fine with them.
• Some of cameras use rechargeable lead acid sealed batteries such as the 6 volt lantern and 12 volt UPS batteries. These are available at Radio Shack and much cheaper Batteries Plus Stores.
• In most cases the aftermarket chargers like battery tenders that can be found at ATV stores and Battery Plus outlets are best.
• We have adapted most of our cameras (for example MOULTRIE PANORAMIC 180I
• ) to solar panels. This really extends the battery life and lessens the hassle of battery changing and charging.
• Caution: It is our practice to carry multiple batteries and memory cards when we make our rounds to check our trail cameras. It has been reported that an individual was transporting the 6 volt battery for his Moultrie trail cam on the way to the field when the battery rolled under the cars seat. The protective caps that came on the battery had been removed and when the battery slid under the car seat it made contact with some metal and resulted in a fire that destroyed the individual’s automobile. Some of the cameras we use have the larger 6 and 12 volt batteries similar to the computer UPS batteries and they also could cause a fire if not properly handled. Care must be taken when handling and transporting and be sure that the protective caps are re installed after charging to prevent the accidental shorting out of the terminals.