Backyard Wildlife Guide: Trail Camera Tips & Animal Activity

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 is 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.
• Dusk Period (4:30-6:30 PM): The golden hour for larger animals like deer and foxes grazing on nearby grass.
• Night Exploration (11:00 PM-2:00 AM): The prime slot for nocturnal visitors. If you want to spot raccoons rummaging through (hopefully secured) bins, this is the time to watch.

Camera Setup Guidelines

For the best results, you'll need a dedicated trail camera rather than a standard security camera. The setup strategy depends entirely on what you want to capture:

For Bird Watchers

Mount your camera low, about 1.5 to 2 feet off the ground, and tilt it slightly upward. To get the best shots, place bird feeders about 8-10 feet away from the lens and keep the surrounding area open. In February, a heated bird bath is a magnet for activity. You might even consider mounting the camera directly on a feeder for close-ups.

For Deer Observation

Deer require a different approach. Position the camera at a height of 3 to 3.5 feet, keeping it level. Focus on natural grasslands at the edge of your yard or set up mineral stations 15-20 feet away. Be sure to preserve some bushes for cover and avoid areas with strong artificial lighting, as this can disturb their nighttime routine.

For Small Mammals & Nocturnal Animals

To capture squirrels, rabbits, or raccoons, aim lower—about 2 to 3 feet high with a slight downward angle. Creating micro-habitats with wood or rock piles works wonders for small mammals. For raccoons and opossums, keep observation points away from the house and ensure garbage bins are secured but visible. Placing a log or rock as a "marker" helps frame the perfect shot.

Critical Camera Settings for the Backyard

Backyard environments differ significantly from deep woods, so stock settings often won't cut it. First, lower your PIR Sensitivity to "Medium" or "Low" to prevent heat from dryer vents or passing cars from triggering false alarms.

Second, choose a "No-Glow" (940nm) infrared flash. Unlike standard flashes, this is invisible to the human eye, ensuring you don't disturb neighbors or alert potential intruders. Finally, adjust your trigger interval based on the subject: use "Burst Mode" for fast-moving birds, but stick to a 30-second delay for deer to save memory card space.

Privacy & Essential Gear

Since you are filming close to home, privacy is paramount. Always angle cameras away from neighboring windows, patios, and fences. Also, be sure to check local regulations regarding wildlife feeding to stay on the right side of the law.

To make monitoring easier, consider using Wi-Fi Trail Cameras. Devices like the GardePro E-series allow you to check footage and adjust settings from your phone, keeping your scent away from the site. For a "set-it-and-forget-it" experience, pair your camera with a solar panel.

👉 Not sure which power source is best? Check our guide on How to Choose the Right Solar Panel for a Trail Camera.

General Maintenance & February Tips

Winter brings unique challenges. Ensure your camera's waterproofing seals are intact and use cold-resistant lithium batteries to handle the February freeze. Regularly clean the lens to remove frost or condensation, and avoid pointing the camera directly at the sun to prevent false triggers caused by rapid temperature shifts.

Also, don't forget to provide water sources—they are crucial for wildlife when natural sources are frozen. Using natural materials to conceal your camera will help it blend in, and remember to adjust angles as vegetation changes with the season.

Keys to Success

Success relies on consistency. If you want wildlife to regularly visit your backyard, maintain consistent feeding times (if allowed) and minimize human interference to establish trust. Provide multiple access points similar to a lake's entry points, and manage your pets during peak wildlife activity hours.

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.