Deployment of cameras on nests in Varanger, in this photo a different and smaller camera is tested out by one of our mastertudents. Photo: Eivind Flittie Kleiven
The article examines how the use of trail cameras can affect predation rates on bird nests in the Arctic tundra. The study shows that the cameras attracted corvids, especially ravens, resulting in artificially high predation rates. The experiment was conducted over two breeding seasons with artificial nests, and the results indicate that standard trail cameras can provide a biased and elevated predation risk. The researchers urge caution when using cameras and recommend developing smaller, better-concealed monitoring methods. They also emphasize the need to assess the potential effects of such methods on predation in each individual case.
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