Transforming an Old Deer Cam with Arduino: Wildlife Capture and Automated Feeding
Introduction:
The intersection of technology and wildlife conservation has opened up new avenues for enthusiasts to explore and contribute to the understanding of our natural world. In this article, we will guide you through the process of repurposing an old deer camera with the power of Arduino to capture wildlife moments and even feed them on a predefined schedule.
Materials Needed:
Old deer camera
Arduino board (e.g., Arduino Uno)
Servo motor
Feeder mechanism
Breadboard and jumper wires
Power source (battery or adapter)
MicroSD card for the camera (if not built-in)
Basic tools (screwdriver, soldering iron, etc.)
Step 1: Disassemble the Deer Camera
Carefully disassemble the deer camera, exposing its internal components. Locate the camera module, power supply, and any relevant connectors. If the camera has a built-in SD card slot, ensure it is accessible.
Step 2: Connect the Arduino
Identify the power supply lines and the trigger mechanism of the camera. Connect the Arduino board to these components using jumper wires. Ensure that the Arduino is powered by an appropriate power source, considering the camera's power requirements.
Step 3: Programming the Arduino
Write a simple Arduino script to trigger the camera at predefined intervals. You can use the Arduino IDE for this purpose. Ensure the script utilizes the necessary pins to simulate the button press or trigger mechanism of the camera. Save the captured images to the SD card, if applicable.
Here's a basic example code snippet:
cpp
#include <Servo.h>
Servo feederServo;
void setup() {
feederServo.attach(SERVO_PIN); // Replace SERVO_PIN with the actual pin number
}
void loop() {
// Capture wildlife photos
captureWildlife();
// Feed the wildlife
feedWildlife();
delay(DELAY_TIME); // Set DELAY_TIME in milliseconds
}
Step 4: Automate Wildlife Feeding
Integrate a servo motor and a feeder mechanism to the setup. The servo motor can be controlled by the Arduino to dispense food at scheduled intervals. Mount the feeder mechanism in a location suitable for attracting wildlife without disturbing their natural behavior.
Step 5: Assemble and Test
Carefully reassemble the deer camera, making sure all the components are properly connected. Place the setup in a strategic location with a clear view of wildlife activity. Test the system to ensure both the camera triggering and wildlife feeding mechanisms are working as intended.
Conclusion:
Repurposing an old deer camera with Arduino not only provides a cost-effective way to capture wildlife moments but also allows you to contribute to wildlife conservation efforts by providing food at scheduled intervals. This DIY project showcases the powerful combination of technology and environmental awareness, empowering individuals to connect with and understand the beauty of the natural world.
