Caught on Camera

Camera traps are an important part of our long-term biodiversity monitoring at La Mananara, allowing us to document cryptic and elusive species that are difficult to observe through traditional surveys. Our volunteers from The Great Projects play an important role in keeping this monitoring program running by regularly changing batteries and SD cards, clearing leaf litter and other debris from in front of the cameras, and helping process thousands of wildlife capture events for our database. Keeping the cameras clear is particularly important because small animals can be difficult to identify when vegetation or debris obscures the view.

The photographs collected over time provide a valuable record of the forest’s wildlife, including both native species and potential exotic species such as domestic dogs and cats. By comparing these data across seasons, years, and different parts of the forest, we can better understand where different species occur and how their activity patterns change with habitat and season. We are incredibly grateful to our volunteers for the many hours they contribute to this important long-term monitoring effort!