The Central Algoma Land Trust’s Trail Camera Project began in 2022 and currently includes fifteen active cameras on nine of our protected areas. Having trail cameras allows us to monitor our remote preserves efficiently and safely, and gives us the opportunity to record evidence of species that we may miss otherwise. 

The cameras we use are equipped with infrared night vision and are able to take photos 24/7, allowing us to capture clear images of wildlife around the clock in both daylight and in complete darkness. By operating our cameras year-round, we can also observe how movement and behavior patterns of different species change with the seasons.  

This program supports our work by allowing us to:

• Monitor wildlife by tracking their presence and abundance in a way that is minimally invasive.

• Identify the presence of rare or endangered species and closely monitor their habitats. 

• Reduce the cost and labour of manual site visits while still collecting data.

• Identify areas of high activity/use that may require further protection. 

• Make informed conservation decisions.

• Help monitor our preserves for illegal dumping or other violations.

• Share fascinating wildlife photos with our members and the public.

Since we upload all of our wildlife images onto iNaturalist, a free online platform that allows people to share plant and animal observations across the globe, our Trail Camera Program also contributes to habitat and population data for many species. Thus, every image collected has the potential to contribute to research from scientists who use iNaturalist as a database and resource. 

Our Trail Camera Project has given us an authentic glimpse into the lives of local wildlife. By capturing images and data throughout the years, we have been able to guide our conservation efforts while connecting our community to the natural world around us.