Cell cams are opening new frontiers in the world of pest management. These small, inexpensive cameras with motion-activated sensing technology and cellular connectivity are broadening the way pest management professionals can detect, learn about, and respond to pest infestations and problem wildlife.
One of these recent innovations is the ability to site a pest detection cell camera at a bait station. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to use cell cameras effectively at bait stations for pest management.
Cell Cameras for Professional Pest Management
Cell cameras are compact, affordable motion-activated cameras that send images, video, and data to users using cellular networks. They can be used in a wide variety of settings, from orchards to basements, and are an affordable way to offer clients 24/7 pest monitoring. Users get:
- Real-time monitoring
- Data collection, including time stamps
- Remote access, eliminating the need for frequent site visits
- Cost-efficient professional pest control solutions
- Better decision making
Setting Up a Cell Camera at a Bait Station
Setting up a cell camera at a bait station is relatively simple, but it requires some careful strategizing so your monitoring yields the intelligence you need.
1. Choose the Right Camera
There are many options available when it comes to cell cameras. Look for a model that has features:
- Motion detection: This ensures the camera only activates when there is activity at the bait station, saving battery life and storage.
- Infrared night vision: Many pests, such as rodents, are more active at night, so a camera with good night vision will be essential for capturing activity after dark.
- Long battery life: A bait station could be in place for several weeks or months, so choose a camera with a battery life that can last for extended periods.
- High resolution: Clear images will allow you to easily identify pests and track patterns.
2. Positioning the Camera
Proper placement is key to capturing clear and useful images. The camera should be positioned:
- Near the bait station: Ensure the camera can clearly see the bait without being obstructed by vegetation or debris.
- At the right height: Mount the camera a few feet off the ground so that animal activity is clearly visible but so is the route that animals use.
- Angle the camera: The camera should be angled to capture pest activity at the most likely entry points.
3. Setting Up the Bait Station
Different bait types will have different levels of effectiveness on different pests. Select the bait that is likely to be the most effective.
- Rodents: Peanut butter, sunflower seeds, or commercial rodent bait
- Insects: Sugar water or pheromone traps
- Larger animals: This can vary widely by the animal–bear seemingly eat almost anything, while deer and feral pigs generally prefer corn and opossums like things with a strong smell
Place the bait in a way that will draw pests towards the camera’s view, ensuring you capture clear images of their activity.
4. Check Your Data, Then Adjust
Every situation and animal is different, so don’t expect what worked in one location to work in another. After setting up your camera and bait station, check the images or videos sent by the camera regularly. Look for patterns in pest activity:
- When do pests visit the station most frequently?
- Do certain pests seem to prefer the bait?
- Is there any sign of competition among pests?
Based on these data, you can adjust your baiting strategy, which could include trying different bait types, moving the bait station, or adding more cameras.
Using cell cameras at bait stations is an effective and efficient way to identify and manage pests. With real-time monitoring, easy access to data, and the ability to adjust strategies based on your observations, pest management can be simplified while also becoming more effective. Using the right baiting station will get you the data you need that much faster.