Your Complete Guide to Backyard Wildlife Observation in February

Many of us like to place our cameras near our yards, such as in the backyard or in small woods just a minute or two away from home. I must say, your backyard can be quite lively in February. Let's get straight to the point: here's the key information you need to better understand your backyard wildlife activity.

Key Time Periods

• Morning Hours (6:00-8:00 AM):
  Peak activity time for birds and small mammals, though birds are typically the most commonly observed.
• Dusk Period (4:30-6:30 PM):
  Most active period for larger animals like deer and foxes. Deer might appear in your backyard to graze on nearby grass or your garden plants.
• Night Exploration Period (11:00 PM-2:00 AM):
  Critical time slot for capturing nocturnal animals like raccoons. Raccoons are particularly interesting as they often move in groups and may even rummage through garbage bins. If you or your children want to observe raccoons, review camera footage from this time period.

Camera Setup Guidelines

For better wildlife observation, you'll need trail cameras rather than security cameras. Here are specific recommendations and experiences:

Bird Observation

• Camera Height: 1.5-2 feet, slightly tilted upward
• Environment Setup:
  • Place bird feeders 8-10 feet from the camera
  • Maintain or plant berry bushes as natural food sources
  • Install heated bird baths (especially important in winter)
  • Keep open areas around feeders for better shots
  • Consider mounting the camera directly on the bird feeder

Deer Observation

• Camera Height: 3-3.5 feet, level position
• Environment Setup:
  • Maintain natural grassland at yard edges
  • Set up mineral stations 15-20 feet from camera
  • Preserve some bushes for cover
  • Avoid strong lighting that might disturb nighttime activity

Small Mammal Observation (Squirrels, Rabbits)

• Camera Height: About 2 feet, slightly downward
• Environment Setup:
  • Create micro-habitats with wood or rock piles
  • Place feeding stations within camera view
  • Maintain some ground cover for protection
  • Set up small water points

Nocturnal Animals (Raccoons, Opossums)

• Camera Height: 2.5-3 feet, level or slightly downward
• Environment Setup:
  • Set observation points away from residential areas
  • Use tip-proof feeders
  • Place logs or large rocks as markers near cameras
  • Ensure garbage bins are properly secured

General Setup Tips

• Provide water sources, especially crucial in winter
• Avoid pointing cameras toward sunlight or strong light sources
• Maintain a 3-5 foot cleared area around each observation point
• Use natural materials for camera concealment
• Adjust camera angles seasonally to accommodate vegetation changes

February Special Considerations

Weather Challenges:

• Ensure waterproofing
• Use cold-resistant lithium batteries
• Clean lenses regularly
• Avoid areas with direct sunlight that might trigger false captures

Keys to Success

Success relies on consistency and stability. If you want wildlife like white-tailed deer to regularly visit your backyard, remember:

1. Maintain consistent feeding times; don't treat them like pets with random feeding schedules
2. Minimize human interference and maintain consistent visiting times to establish trust through familiar scent patterns
3. Provide multiple access points for wildlife, similar to a lake's multiple entry points
4. Manage pets during key wildlife activity periods

Remember: The most fascinating wildlife moments often occur when least expected. Stay patient, respect nature, and the activities in your backyard will bring you joy.