Remote monitoring of nests using digital camera technology

Although cameras have been used for many years to collect data at birds' nests, recent advances in digital technology have led to increased storage capacity, faster and easier review of data, and reduced power consumption. The development of sophisticated triggering mechanisms, such as video motion detection, herald a new era of portable, energy-efficient systems that require less frequent maintenance. We used a digital infrared camera system to monitor predation events at the nests of ground-nesting Lapwings (Vanellus vanellus; N = 40) and tree-nesting Spotted Flycatchers (Muscicapa striata; N = 17). Eight predator species were recorded taking eggs or chicks at Lapwing (N = 10) and Spotted Flycatcher (N = 7) nests, including red fox (Vulpes vulpes), badger (Meles meles), sheep (Ovis aries), and Carrion Crow (Corvus corone) at Lapwing nests and Eurasian Jay (Garrulus glandarius), European Buzzard (Buteo buteo), Great-spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopus major), and domestic cat (Felis catus) at flycatcher nests. We tested three system configurations in an attempt to minimize power requirements and maximize predation-event recording capability. We found that the use of a passive-infrared sensor to awaken the system from standby mode did not compromise reliability and reduced power consumption. With this system, a 38-A h battery operated the system for 120 h with no maintenance at a cost per unit of about $800 (US; or 400 pound UK Sterling). Further modifications would permit adaptation of the system for a wide range of scientific and nest surveillance operations.