Influence of camera model and alignment on the performance of paired camera stations

The probability of obtaining images target species may vary across camera models or relative position cameras at survey locations. Alignment within paired stations (hereafter, stations) could affect detection due to issues with image exposure. We quantified effects 3 and alignment (staggered, offset by a perpendicular distance 4.6 m, aligned, directly facing one another) on performance in station design. Mean exposure events (flash from overexposes underexposes pictures) aligned was 3.93 (SE = 1.01; n 40), whereas no were documented staggered (n 36) stations. Overall frequency mammal 44% (68 events/153 images). On average, 8% (range 0−35%) events. detected difference (P 0.88) among models. Further, we overall differences ≥ 0.07) (i.e., number over interval) between stations, though reliability percentage that lasted entire varied ≤ 0.001) model types. Research deploying 2 framework can eliminate using without affecting the usable photos. Rigorous field testing prior deployment is warranted optimize reliability. One our low-cost performed as well more expensive collecting images, thus be incorporated into study designs compromising quality photo data. suggest pilot before large-scale evaluate cameras, particularly when multiple