Standard Operating Procedure

Remote operation of

SOP No: 5.2

Prepared by: Michael (Mick) Davis, Covenant Officer, Department of Environment and Conservation, Species and Communities Branch, Locked Bag 104 Bentley Delivery Centre WA 6983

Prepared for:

Department of Environment and Conservation’s Animal Ethics Committee and Species and Communities Branch

Version 1.0 (April 2011) SOP No 5.2 Remote operation of cameras

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Approvals Version 1.0

Acknowledgements

The author would like thank Vanessa Richter for preparing a large part of the document in draft form prior to review, and acknowledge the contributions of the following reviewers in improving the content and quality of this standard operating procedure: Neil Thomas, Christine Groom, Sophie Moller, Teagan Johnston, Mike Griffiths, Avril Baxter, Peter Lacey, Mark Moore, Natasha Moore, Chris Phoebe and Anna Nowicki.

Suggested Citation This document may be cited as: Davis, M. J. (2011). Standard Operating Procedure: Remote Operation of Cameras. Version 1.0 (April 2011). Prepared for Department of Environment and Conservation.

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Revision History Log Version # Revision Date Author Changes 0.1 14/7/09 Christine Initial draft developed from SOP 5.2 – Operation of Freegard and remote cameras Vanessa Richter 0.11 10/6/2010 Mick Davis Addition of changes / review in light of new developments 0.12 23/6/2010 Mick Davis Addressing all ‘yellow points’ in original SOP from Christine Freegard – changes in yellow 29/6/2010 Sophie Moller Editing and comment on previous draft [v0.12] 0.13 01/7/2010 Mick Davis Addition of comments from all stakeholders using cameras in the field 0.14 20/07/2010 Mick Davis Addition of comments and proofreading from AEC Executive Officer 0.9 20/07/2010 Mick Davis Final Draft sent for approval 0.95 03/08/2010 Neil Thomas Comments sent back 1.0 07/02/2011 Mick Davis Second Final Draft sent to AEC for approval 1.0 28/03/2011 Mick Davis Submitted for signatures and approval

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

Table of Contents

1 Purpose ...... 5

2 Scope ...... 5

3 Definitions ...... 6

4 Selection ...... 6

4.1 or digital...... 7

4.1.1 Digital ...... 7

4.1.2 35mm film ...... 7

4.2 Type of ...... 7

4.2.1 Passive infrared ...... 7

4.2.2 Active infrared ...... 7

5 Procedure Outline ...... 7

5.1 Pilot study ...... 8

5.1.1 Species ...... 8

5.1.2 Equipment ...... 8

5.1.3 Number of cameras ...... 8

5.1.4 Conditions ...... 9

5.1.5 Training ...... 9

5.1.6 Programming Options ...... 9

5.1.6.1 Still photo programming ...... 9

5.1.6.2 Video photo programming ...... 9

5.2 Prior to camera deployment ...... 9

5.3 Setting the camera traps ...... 10

5.4 Use of baits or lures ...... 12

5.5 Monitoring cameras ...... 12

5.6 Maintaining equipment ...... 13

5.7 Batteries ...... 13

5.8 Camera storage ...... 13

6 Level of Impact ...... 13

7 Ethical Considerations ...... 13

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

Table of Contents (cont')

7.1 Influencing animal behaviour ...... 14

7.2 Use of bait ...... 14

7.3 Clearing vegetation ...... 14

7.4 Use of a ...... 14

8 Competencies and Approvals ...... 14

9 Occupational Health and Safety ...... 15

9.1 Disorientation ...... 15

9.2 Peanut allergy ...... 15

9.2 Battery leaks ...... 15

10 Further Reading ...... 15

11 References ...... 16

Appendix 1 - Example Trapping Diray ...... 17

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

1 Purpose

Remote involves the use of remote cameras (camera traps) which are set up to be triggered by animals passing through a motion or infrared sensor, or other means (Gese, 2001 as cited in Mitchell and Balogh, 2007). Passive and active camera systems have been used in wildlife research to assist in monitoring and surveying (Locke et al., 2005; Mitchell and Balogh, 2007), and allow for monitoring of secretive and rare species in a non-invasive way (Silver 2004). Use of a camera trap does not require the species to be captured or personnel to be present in the area throughout the study.

Figure 1 – of remote cameras in the field. On the left, the camera is set at ~1.2 m height to detect larger fauna (kangaroos, foxes etc.) on a walk trail. On the right, the camera is set at ~0.4m height to detect smaller fauna (bandicoots, water rats etc.). Photos by Mick Davis.

Advantages of using remote cameras include installation in remote areas where conventional trapping methods are difficult or weather conditions are not ideal (Davis, 2009). They are less time consuming, less costly and less invasive than more traditional methods (Mitchell and Balogh, 2007). Using remote photography can also reduce problems associated with observer bias, as /video can be reviewed by others and saved for future analysis (Cutler and Swann, 1999, Davis, 2009).

This standard operating procedure (SOP) provides specific instructions on planning for and setting up remote cameras for monitoring of fauna in Western Australia.

2 Scope

This SOP applies to fauna survey and monitoring activities using camera traps for monitoring by the Department of Environment and Conservation (DEC). It may also be used to guide fauna monitoring activities undertaken by Natural Resource Management (NRM) groups, consultants, researchers and any other individuals or organisations. All DEC personnel involved in monitoring using camera traps should be familiar with the content of this document.

DEC Animal Ethics Committee approval is required for projects using any form of bait or lure to encourage animals to camera traps. Examples of previous AEC applications for using remote camera traps are projects 2009/08 (application available for reference on the DEC AEC Intranet) and 2010/24. In cases where the use of camera traps is considered non-invasive and does not interfere with fauna, ethics approval by the AEC is encouraged, but not required.

This SOP complements the Australian code of practice for the care and use of animals for scientific purposes (The Code). The Code contains an introduction to the ethical use of animals in wildlife studies and should be referred to for broader issues. A copy of the code may be viewed by visiting the National Health and Medical Research Council website (http://www.nhmrc.gov.au/). In Western Australia any person using animals for scientific purposes must be covered by a license issued under the provisions of the Animal Welfare Act 2002, which is administered by the Department of Local Government.

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

3 Definitions

Camera Trap/Remote camera: An infra-red camera installed in the field which automatically takes photographs of animal passing in front of it (TEAM Network, 2008).

Pilot Study: is a replication of an activity on a small scale to check that design of the experiment (with the hope of picking up any problems) prior to commencing it on a large scale.

PIR: Passive Infra-red sensor, such as that used on garage doors sensors. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Passive_infrared_sensor

LED: Light-emitting Diode. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Light-emitting_diode

Trigger time: The time it takes for a remote camera to take a photo/video after an animal has moved into the Detection Zone.

Recovery time: The time it takes for a remote camera to return to a state where it can take another photo/video. This includes time for the camera to take the photo/video, process the data and reset all components. This period can vary between 0.1 – 4 seconds depending on model of remote camera used.

Detection Zone: The zone within which movement triggers the remote camera to take a photo/video. This zone if often a cone shape (originating from the unit) and may be between 3 – 10m long and between 15 - 72º wide, depending on the model of remote camera used.

4 Camera Selection

Before considering the use of camera traps as a survey or monitoring tool, the user will need to consider the reason for the study, the size of the study area, how data will be stored and analysed, how many cameras are needed, and any other required resources to enable completion of the study such as trained personnel, technical support and funding to analyse the data (Jackson et al., 2005).

There is a wide variety of camera trap equipment to choose from (Cutler and Swann, 1999). Remote photography equipment should be chosen according to the specific project objectives. It is recommended that users consult with other people currently using camera traps to increase awareness and maximise the transfer of skills and knowledge already available in the Department.

The following should be taken into consideration when choosing camera traps (Silver, 2004):

1. COST: the type of camera purchased will depend on the number needed, the purpose of the project, the subject matter and the budget.

2. TECHNICAL EXPERTISE: some models of camera require more expertise for their proper use, and therefore the level of expertise of personnel deploying and monitoring the equipment will need to be considered.

3. SITE SECURITY: will the site be secure or is there constant access from the public?

4. MONITORING ABILITY: access to the camera sites needs to be considered with regard to film/ memory and battery life. If the site is in a very remote area, it is important to choose cameras with extended memory and battery life.

5. WEATHER: some cameras are self-contained in waterproof units, others are sensitive to water/rain.

6. ACCESS TO TECHNICAL SUPPORT: is there easy access to technical support (warranty, repair costs, turnaround time for replacement, repairs, etc.)?

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

4.1 Film or digital There is still some debate about whether digital images or 35 mm film will produce better results. The advantages and disadvantages are discussed below. 4.1.1 Digital The advantages of digital images include: • a large number of photos can be taken; • the images can be reviewed in the field; • easy reproduction and distribution of the images; • easy enlargement of images of small animals for identification; • higher confidence in identification of animals (especially when video is recorded); and • lower costs overall as the film does not need to be developed (Goosem, 2005).

The disadvantages of digital images include: • it can take a long time to review the large number of images produced; and • storing and processing the large amounts of data can be time consuming.

4.1.2 35 mm film The advantages of 35 mm film cameras include: • lower power use; • better flash capabilities; and • the ability to take photos continuously with reduced lag time between photos (Goosem, 2005).

The disadvantages of 35 mm film cameras include: • can only take up to 36 photos before unit needs to be replaced; • higher cost to process film images; • no ability to review images in the field; and • white/incandescent flash units may disturb nocturnal animals.

4.2 Type of camera trap There are two categories of cameras based on their trigger mechanism (Silver, 2004). 4.2.1 Passive infrared (PIR) Passive infrared motion sensor cameras are triggered when an animal with a temperature that differs from the ambient temperature moves within the camera’s detection zone (Silver, 2004 and Jackson et al., 2005). Some models of these cameras cannot differentiate between different-sized animals or are less effective at detecting smaller animals from a distance, and they may not always detect cold- blooded species as readily. They are also prone to false triggers from environmental conditions if not set up correctly. However, they generally have wider zones of detection than active infrared cameras (Goosem, 2005).

4.2.2 Active infrared Active infrared cameras are triggered when an animal crosses an invisible infra-red beam (Silver, 2004 and Jackson et al., 2005). These cameras are well-suited for almost all animals and are not affected by temperature in the way that the passive infrared camera systems are. The disadvantages of using active infrared cameras are that they are more expensive, require more expertise to use and they are triggered by any movements, including leaves and moving branches. (Goosem, 2005). Much care is required to set the beam at the appropriate level, or target animals will be missed.

5 Procedure Outline

Every camera trapping activity is unique and is influenced by different factors such as the type of camera used, the target species, environmental conditions and human activities (Jackson et al., 2005). It is, therefore, advantageous to conduct a pilot study prior to commencing the main activity. This should reveal any deficiencies in the design of the proposed activity which can then be addressed prior to conducting the activity on a larger scale.

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

5.1 Pilot Study

5.1.1 Species A pilot study enables you to get a realistic assessment of the species that may be present in an area (Silver, 2004). Comparison of expected species (derived from desktop assessment) and species detected during the pilot study can clarify the effectiveness of the selected cameras at detecting expected species in the field. 5.1.2 Equipment The pilot study enables users to become familiar with the equipment, and establish camera angels, time delays, battery life, memory capacity, etc.

Organising the equipment prior to deployment makes for a smoother, more successful monitoring activity, as well as providing a safer, more organised working environment in which to operate. As well as the remote cameras themselves, other additional equipment will be required. Some of this equipment is summarised in Table 1. Lessons learnt from using the equipment should be incorporated into future training sessions.

Table 1 – Additional equipment required for undertaking remote camera trapping activities

Item Use Number Batteries/solar panels Powering remote cameras 4, 6 or 8 per camera. Various sizes (AA, C or D cells). Alkaline or rechargeable as required Memory cards Recording digital data Two per camera Battery charger Maintaining battery power As required Additional camera (handheld Recording trapping site As required digital or film type) conditions and photographing trapping area Trapping diary Recording information on One per remote camera trapping site and weather conditions GPS Recording remote camera As required location USB card reader Reviewing captured images in One per project, or as required the field Laptop computer Reviewing and storing images One per project, or as required external to remote camera memory Suitable photo/video editing Reviewing and editing images One per project, or as required software

5.1.3 Number of cameras The number of cameras used will depend on the size of the study area, logistics and resources (i.e. how many cameras can be placed and checked in the field), and the funding and time available. For example, 13 cameras (12 operational and 1 spare) were purchased for the 2009 DEC Pilot project (Davis 2010). This number was deemed sufficient to allow numerous smaller areas to be monitored at the same time, or to saturate larger reserves with many cameras over a single period. Each project should carefully consider how many cameras are required to achieve project goals, as some projects may utilise up to 50 cameras or more.

5.1.4 Conditions When placing cameras in the natural environment, users should consider whether human activity is likely to have an impact (e.g. is there a chance the equipment will be stolen, is there a suitable track to the site, are there any disease risks?), as well as environmental conditions (e.g. wind, rain, heat).

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

This should be determined during the pilot study.

5.1.5 Training The pilot study can also be used to ensure that all personnel are trained in the use of the equipment, and are familiar with the objectives of the study.

Training sessions should be undertaken in areas where animals are likely to be detected, with a variety of camera trapping options/situations available (e.g. animal trails, areas of activity or water sources etc). This will ensure people are aware of the requirements for setting up cameras in different areas, or for different target species. Some interpretation of the environment is required to work out the best location for camera placement. For example, the camera could be focused on existing tracks, particular flowers, or fences to target particular species. For more information, see the section on site selection.

5.1.6 Programming options As all models of remote cameras are slightly different, programming of different models should be guided by the instruction manuals supplied. There are some points that need to be considered, as outlined below.

5.1.6.1 Still photo programming If required, cameras can be programmed with time delays between successive pictures in areas where non-target animals can produce large numbers of unwanted photos (e.g. herds of sheep) and deplete the battery. Note: with a longer time delay, the probability is greater that the target species will not be recorded.

Because large numbers of photos can be stored on most remote cameras, programming delay options are not recommended during deployment.

A single photo per detection at high resolution is the preferred setting for long-term monitoring.

5.1.6.2 Video programming Options for video capture are available on most digital remote cameras and can provide some excellent results when programmed correctly.

The length of the video, resolution and sound options should be carefully considered to maximise the number of videos possible - shorter video length is preferred to lower video image quality. Recording of long videos may reduce the time that the camera can be used in the field especially if the memory is filled with long periods of video where animals are not in the field of view.

Video settings are particularly useful for new site investigations, investigating animal behaviour or working with community groups to raise interest, as they show animal behaviours as well as record the time of visitation.

5.2 Prior to camera deployment

(a) Site selection The site (or sites) should be visited before the monitoring period commences to:

I. determine likely locations for remote camera traps,

II. clarify any access issues with the site(s); and

III. ascertain the need for additional posts or supports prior to camera deployment.

During this visit it is recommended the site be searched for water sources, holes in fences, areas where plants are flowering (or about to) or areas where there are signs of high animal activity. Deploying remote camera traps in these areas may negate the need to use bait at the site, as bait can change the natural behaviour patterns of the animals.

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

Figure 2 – This site was selected for monitoring due to the hole in the fence line, which showed signs of use by fauna. Animals need to slow down to pass through, which make it an ideal site for a remote camera trap.

(b) Liaise with the Regional Fire Coordinator to ensure no prescribed burns are planned for the deployment areas. Most camera traps are constructed of compound plastics and will burn or melt if exposed to even mild fire conditions.

(c) Cameras must be labelled with an individual number.

(d) Film rolls/memory cards must be labelled with the date and camera number corresponding to the camera’s location.

(e) Ensure batteries are loaded and fully charged.

(f) Ensure that the date and time settings are accurate, as this will be required for determining the individual capture event (Silver, 2004).

(g) Set camera programming/settings.

5.3 Setting the camera traps (a) Flag each camera location and take a GPS reading.

(b) **Follow the camera manufacturer’s instructions for set up.**

(c) Attach the camera to a sturdy strainer, star picket, post or large sturdy tree and secure with wire/tape to reduce the chance of the camera being knocked. Star pickets are a suitable alternative where no in-situ anchor point is available or suitable. Avoid using small trees or mallee’s as they will move in even light or moderate winds.

I. Where trees or shrubs are inadequate to securely support the camera, consider using a flat block of wood or marine ply between the camera and tree trunk to provide a stable mounting area. II. If the camera is in an area where there is a possibility that it may be stolen, it will need to be further secured with a chain and lock. III. Camouflage may be used, either by positioning fallen braches behind the camera or using a cover made of camouflage material. Care should be taken not to cover the PIR sensor, camera iris or LED array.

(d) Angle the camera in the required position. Figure 3 gives some guidance on the recommended ways to position the camera.

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

(e) When using passive infra-red cameras, avoid pointing the camera into direct sunlight (see Figure 4 below) or at objects that absorb heat (e.g. large rocks) as this can result in false triggers.

(f) Protect any cables from animals that may chew on them.

(g) Ensure the camera lenses are clean.

Figure 3: Recommendations for camera trap placement (TEAM Network, 2008).

(h) Check Aspect The aspect (or direction the camera faces) is significant if using remote cameras with PIR sensors. The heat from direct sunlight (e.g. when the sun is low on the horizon in the early morning or late afternoon) upsets the PIR sensor and can trigger the camera to take an image/video. As shown in figure 3, a southerly aspect is preferred and east–west aspects should be avoided where possible.

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

Afternoon sun Morning sun

S

Figure 4 – Diagram showing the preferred aspect (southerly) for remote cameras, with the lens facing to the south. This reduces glare and misfires due to solar interference with the PIR device.

(i) Once the camera is set, the area between the camera and detection zone needs to be made free of vegetation (such as tall grasses and other weeds) that may wave in any breeze and trigger the camera’s sensor. This does not mean tree branches or shrubs should be cleared!

(j) Test the aim of the camera by waving your hand in front of the PIR (near where you expect animals to pass) or walking along the track to ensure you have the right angle. The camera should trigger if set up correctly. If not go back to (b)

(k) Record details of each camera trap’s deployment using an appropriate ‘Trapping Diary’, an example is provided in Appendix 1.

(l) Inform the relevant DEC District of the location of remote cameras so that if unforseen events such as fire or flood occur, the cameras can be retrieved and the monitoring data are not compromised.

5.4 Use of baits or lures Baits or lures can be placed to encourage animals into the detection zone of a camera. The decision to use baits/attractants will depend on the purpose of the monitoring activity. Using bait or lures is not recommended if the cameras are in remote locations or access is difficult, as the bait/lure would need to be replaced, increasing the resources required.

The common bait used for attracting most mammal species is Universal Bait (a mixture of peanut paste, rolled oats and sardines). For advice on making universal bait refer to DEC SOP 9.7 Mixing universal bait. Other bait types or ingredients (e.g. sausage or other meat) may be used to target particular species if approved.

Using bait will interrupt the natural behaviour of any animals using the trapping area and may influence the trapping rates at the site. Using bait could also increase the predation of some animals. Careful consideration of the need to use bait or lures should be given, particularly in relation to the desire for repeatability of the monitoring in the future.

Animal Ethics approval will be required for any monitoring being undertaken by the Department that uses bait or lures.

As mentioned in section 5.3 above, careful reconnaissance and interpretation of the site prior to deploying the camera will determine naturally occurring resources (like water sources (dams) or flowering plants) which animals are likely to visit. Using a site’s natural resources (such as a nectar producing flower) as a subject for deployment of remote cameras not only reduces the disturbance to natural behaviour of animals at monitoring sites, but also provides useful new information about the interactions between animals and resources in their natural environment.

5.5 Monitoring cameras Two factors which must be taken into consideration during planning are the film/memory card type and

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras the battery life. The amount of traffic in the study area will determine how often the film and/or battery will need changing and how frequently the memory card will need to be downloaded. These should be examined during the pilot study (Silver, 2004).

Consultation with experienced staff will give a realistic idea of the length of deployment that might be expected in relation to battery life, as well the size of the memory card required (generally the bigger the better, but this is often limited by the remote camera model and could range from 2 GB to 16 GB). The cost of memory cards should also be taken into consideration.

5.6 Maintaining equipment All camera systems will require regular maintenance (Cutler and Swann, 1999). It is important to inspect the camera systems each time the film/memory card or batteries are changed. Any broken equipment should be marked down in the trapping diary and scheduled for repairs.

It is recommended that at least one spare set of camera equipment is purchased and used as a backup should another camera be defective.

All repairs or damage should be recorded on a ‘Trapping Diary’ (example provided in Appendix 1), and forwarded to the project coordinator/Chief Investigator.

5.7 Batteries Rechargeable batteries have a comparable operational life in the field and should be considered as a more sustainable option for powering remote cameras than traditional alkaline batteries.

The use of rechargeable, external, lead-acid batteries may also be warranted where extra-long deployment of cameras is desired.

Some camera traps have the option for solar-powered and/or external battery units, which can extend deployment times. However, careful panel placement and pre-charging of the units is required, so be sure to follow manufacturer’s instructions if using these.

5.8 Camera storage All camera equipment should be cleaned and stored in a dry location after use.

Batteries should be (recharged if they’re rechargeable), removed and stored in a resealable plastic bag with the date removed written on it (TEAM Network, 2008). This will allow easy understanding of whether batteries will need recharging or replacement prior to next deployment. Batteries stored for long periods of time tend to lose their charge over time, so battery management is an important factor to consider.

6 Level of Impact

Potential animal welfare impacts when using remote camera to monitor/survey animals include:

• Alteration of animal behaviour; • Increased chance of predation if bait is used, and • Clearing native vegetation.

7 Ethical Considerations

To reduce the level of impact of remote cameras on the welfare of animals there are a number of ethical considerations that should be addressed. DEC projects involving the use of remote cameras to monitor and survey animals may require approval from the DEC Animal Ethics Committee if they are using baits or are likely to influence animal behaviour in any way. The following ethical considerations must be adequately covered in any application for approval to undertake research

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras involving vertebrate animals.

7.1 Influencing animal behaviour Camera equipment may alter some animals’ behaviour if they are aware of its presence; this is why it is important to conduct a pilot study.

7.2 Use of bait There is an increased chance of predation if bait is used to encourage animals to the camera traps. The common bait is universal bait (a mixture of peanut paste, rolled oats and sardines). Other bait types or ingredients (e.g. sausage or other meat) may be used if these have been identified for use for a particular project by the DEC AEC

7.3 Clearing vegetation There may be some impact to vegetation being cleared around the site of the camera. The level of impact depends on the type and density of vegetation.

It is preferable to find a site with limited ground cover to limit destruction of vegetation. This also increases the field of view and, subsequently, the likelihood of capturing any animals in the camera’s range.

8 Competencies and Approvals

DEC personnel (and other external parties covered by the DEC Animal Ethics Committee) undertaking projects that involve using camera traps should seek approval from the committee and will need to satisfy the competency requirements detailed in Table 3. This is to ensure that personnel involved have the necessary knowledge and experience to minimise the potential welfare impacts of using camera traps. Other groups, organisations or individuals using this SOP to guide their fauna monitoring activities are also encouraged to meet these competency requirements. Other users should be aware that animal welfare legislative obligations apply to everyone.

It should be noted that the level of competency required will depend on other factors such as the subject matter of the study being undertaken. Table 3 provides advice for basic (surveillance) monitoring only – more complex projects (e.g. involving the use of remote cameras in combination with cage or pitfall traps) will require additional competencies.

Table 3 - Competency requirements of personnel involved in projects using remote cameras to monitor/survey wildlife. Competency Competency Competency Assessment Category Requirement Formal qualifications 3.7 CALM Mammal Provide course year and course certificates Conservation Course (1992-1995) (Note: Suitable levels OR of skills/experience 3.8 CALM/DEC Fauna Provide course year can substitute for Management Course formal training (1997-) requirements) General 5.1 Relevant Personnel must be able to correctly identify the skills/experience knowledge of species species likely to be encountered for the site/s biology and ecology being studied. This knowledge may be gained by sufficient field experience and/or consultation of field guides and other literature. Estimated total time in field: Minimum 1 year involved in similar projects.

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

9 Occupational Health and Safety

First aid kits should always be carried in vehicles. Personnel must be aware of their own safety, the safety of others and the safety of the animals during handling.

It is recommended that a job safety analysis is undertaken prior to undertaking remote camera at your site. This safety analysis should include the following general considerations: • to sun (UV); • potential trip or fall injury; • venomous snakes, • ticks; • driving (4wd or light vehicle), and • dehydration.

In addition, the following OH& S aspects should be carefully considered.

9.1 Disorientation It is easy to become disorientated when travelling in remote areas. Ensure that adequate maps are carried and that appropriate safety procedures are in place to ensure that a search will be undertaken if communication is not received within an agreed timeframe.

9.2 Peanut allergy All staff and volunteers involved in using universal bait should be made aware of the potential for contact with peanuts. Personnel with a known or suspected peanut allergy will need to take appropriate precautions when in contact with universal bait.

9.3 Battery leaks Batteries contain acid which is a corrosive agent. Care should be taken when opening each camera to avoid contact with any acid that may have leaked from the batteries during deployment. If an acid leak is noted, latex gloves should be worn to decommission the camera and remove the leaking batteries from the device. Store any leaking batteries separately from other batteries and record the details on the ‘Set-up Checklist’ form.

Dispose of the leaking batteries in an appropriate manner.

10 Further Reading

The following SOPs have been mentioned in the advice regarding operation of remote cameras. It is recommended that the following SOPs are also consulted when proposing to undertake monitoring or surveying using remote cameras.

SOP 9.7 Mixing universal bait (In preparation as at April 2009).

For further advice on available cameras refer to:

Camtrakker – http://www.camtrakker.com

Crow Systems - http://www.crowsystems.com

Faunatech cameras – http://www.faunatech.com

Reconyx – http://www.reconyx.com

Trailcampro – http://www.trailcampro.com

Trailmaster cameras – http://www.trailmaster.com

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

11 References

Cutler, T.L. and Swann, D.E. (1999). Using remote photography in wildlife ecology: a review. Wildlife Society Bulletin 27 (3): 571-581.

Davis, M. (2009). ‘Chuditch Spotted In Dryandra’. Article in Western Wildlife – Newsletter of the Land For Wildlife Scheme 13 (4): 13. Department of Environment and Conservation.

Davis, M. (2010). Report to DEC Animal Ethics Committee on Project 08/2009 - Monitoring Wheatbelt Fauna of Avon-Mortlock District using Remote Cameras.

Goosem, M.W. (2005). Wildlife surveillance assessment: Compton Road upgrade 2005 - review of contemporary remote and direct surveillance options for monitoring. Report to the Brisbane City Council, Environment and Parks Branch. Rainforest CRC, Cairns. Available electronically at: http://www.jcu.edu.au/rainforest/publications/compton_upgrade.pdf Last accessed 7/1/2009.

Jackson, R.M., Roe, J.D., Wangchuk, R. and Hunter, D.O. (2005). Surveying Snow Leopard populations with emphasis on camera trapping: a handbook. The Snow Leopard Conservancy, Sonoma, California. Available electronically at: www.SnowLeopardConservancy.org Last accessed 7/1/2009.

Locke, S.L., Cline, M.D., Wetzel, D.L., Pittman, M.T., Brewer, C.E. and Harveson, L.A. (2005). A web based for monitoring remote wildlife. Wildlife Society Bulletin 33 (2): 761-765.

Mitchell, B. and Balogh, S. (2007). Monitoring techniques for vertebrate pests: wild dogs. NSW Department of Primary Industries. Available electronically at: http://www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0008/218537/Monitoring-techniques-for-vertebrate- pests---dogs.pdf Last accessed 7/2/2010.

Silver, S. (2004). Assessing Jaguar abundance using remotely triggered cameras. Wildlife Conservation Society. Available electronically at: http://savethejaguar.com/media/file/CameraTrapProtocolEnglishSSilver(revised)03.05FINAL.pdf Last accessed 6/12/2008.

TEAM Network, (2008). Terrestrial vertebrate protocol implementation manual, v 3.0. Tropical Ecology, Assessment and Monitoring Network, Centre for Applied Biodiversity Science, Conservation International, Arlington, VA, USA. Available electronically at: http://www.teamnetwork.org/en/protocols/bio/terrestrial-vertebrate Last accessed 7/1/2009.

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

Appendix 1- Example “Trapping Diary”

SET-UP CHECKLIST

RECORDER POSITION

DATE TIME am / pm

LOCATION

DATU LAT/NORTHING M GDA 94 UTM

LONG/EASTING

PRE-DEPLOYMENT CHECK Y N

ASPECT CONFIRMED Y N

ASPECT

TAKE A PHOTO OF CAMERA POSITION Y N

TAKE A PHOTO OF THECAMERA ASPECT Y N

DISTANCE TO BAIT No Bait m

BAIT TYPE Predator Herbivore

CAMERA ELEVATION cm

PLANNED TRAPPING DURATION weeks months

PLANNED DATE OF RETRIEVAL

DATE OF RETRIEVAL

PROBLEMS / DAMAGE

CAMERA WORKING ON PICK UP Y N

MOISTURE PRESENT INSIDE CAMERA/HOUSING? Y N

BATTERY REMAINING %

MEMORY REMAINING

SOLAR CHARGE REMAINING %

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SOP No 5.2 Remote Operation of Cameras

Notes

Weather / prevailing conditions

Drawings/Maps

Page - 18