Trail cameras are essential for my research, providing non-intrusive, continuous observation of moose behavior and movements. They collect critical data on moose populations and habitat use, vital for tracking long-term trends. After eight years of use, my cameras are failing, compromising data quality and continuity.

I need to replace these cameras, along with batteries and memory cards, which are crucial for long-term operation in the field. Additionally, I require bear boxes and cable locks to protect the cameras from wildlife, particularly bears, and theft. These measures ensure that equipment remains secure and functional, safeguarding the investment and enabling consistent data collection to support my research efforts.

Additional Information

Use of Stratified-Random Design in Camera Deployment

In reviewing An empirical evaluation of camera trap study design: How many, how long and when? by Kays et al. (2020), it is evident that camera trap study design significantly impacts the quality and accuracy of wildlife data collection. The study emphasizes the importance of optimizing camera numbers, placement duration, and timing to maximize detection probability and achieve robust population and behavioral insights. Drawing from these insights, I will employ a stratified-random design to ensure that camera deployment aligns with moose movement patterns and habitat use in Northern Wisconsin.

To effectively monitor moose populations and prove their residency status in Northern Wisconsin, I will employ a stratified-random design for trail camera placement. This design ensures that the camera distribution accounts for the diverse habitats and behaviors associated with moose movements, while also providing comprehensive data across different landscape types.

Stratification Based on Habitat Type and Moose Behavior:

Strata Definition: The study area will be divided into distinct strata based on key habitat types known to support moose. These include wetlands, dense forests, open areas, and transitional zones.

Wetlands: Moose frequently use wetlands for foraging, especially in summer, and these areas provide a rich source of aquatic vegetation. While wetlands are high-use areas, the likelihood of false triggers from moving water and vegetation requires a more cautious deployment strategy. Instead of focusing heavily on open marshland, cameras in wetland zones will be placed along edges where moose are more likely to traverse and where vegetation is less likely to trigger the camera.

Dense Forests: Moose use these areas for cover during the winter months and seek shelter from harsh weather conditions. These areas offer more controlled conditions for camera deployment, as vegetation is less likely to cause false triggers, and moose use them regularly for shelter during the winter.

Open Areas/Meadows: Moose are often observed feeding in open areas, particularly during the early morning and late evening hours. Although open spaces can capture feeding behavior, the risks of false triggers from wind-blown grass and temperature changes suggest a reduced focus on this habitat.

Transitional Zones: These are areas between dense forest and open habitat, where moose may travel between feeding and resting areas. Transitional areas between dense forests and open spaces are important corridors for moose movement and offer good conditions for capturing a variety of behaviors without high false-trigger risks.

Random Sampling Within Strata:

Within each habitat stratum, camera locations will be randomly selected to avoid bias and ensure even representation across the moose’s known range. This random sampling allows for the collection of data across all habitat types, ensuring that no one habitat type is over- or under-represented in the study.

Proportional Camera Placement:

Cameras will be distributed proportionally across the strata based on the known or estimated importance of each habitat type to moose. For example:

30% of cameras in Wetlands:

Cameras will be deployed at the edges of wetlands where moose are more likely to be observed moving in and out of the water, reducing false triggers from fluctuating marshland conditions. Strategic placement will focus on wetland access points and browsing areas near water sources.

35% of cameras in Dense Forests:

As these areas are critical for moose during the winter months, more cameras will be deployed here to monitor their sheltering and movement behavior. Forest conditions also reduce the likelihood of false triggers from environmental factors.

15% of cameras in Open Areas:

While open areas provide valuable insight into feeding behavior, the frequency of false triggers from wind and temperature variations warrants a reduced camera presence. Cameras will be positioned near known feeding grounds but with additional sensitivity settings to minimize false activations.

20% of cameras in Transitional Zones:

Transitional zones between habitat types are key movement corridors for moose. These areas will receive a higher allocation than open spaces due to the lower likelihood of false triggers and the opportunity to observe moose traveling between feeding and sheltering areas.

Additional Considerations

Camera Sensitivity Settings: Cameras placed in wetlands and open areas will have their sensitivity fine-tuned to reduce the likelihood of false triggers. Adjusting the motion detection sensitivity and using cameras with better filtering for environmental factors will be crucial.

Height and Angle: To further reduce false triggers, cameras will be mounted at appropriate heights and angles, particularly in open areas and wetlands. This will help avoid picking up swaying grass or ripples in the water.

Adjustments Based on Moose Movements:

While the initial placement will follow a stratified-random design, periodic review and adjustments will be made based on preliminary data and observed movement patterns. If certain habitats show higher-than-expected activity, additional cameras may be moved or added within that stratum to capture more detailed data.

Comprehensive Data Collection:

This method ensures that all critical habitat types within the study area are monitored, providing comprehensive data on moose movements, habitat use, and residency patterns. By covering a range of habitat types, I can better assess year-round use of the area by moose and provide strong evidence for their classification as a resident species.