The secret life of animals

[n2doc]

The Smithsonian's database of thousands of 'candid camera' shots gives a fascinating insight into wild behaviour

By Guy Adams

They were just going about their daily business: the elephants strolling, the hyena mooching, and the pair of thirsty pandas taking a refreshing drink. Then... gotcha! With the click of a hi-tech shutter and perhaps a blinding flash, a moment from their hidden existence was captured for posterity.

In recent decades, scientists have come to rely heavily on motion-sensitive cameras to conduct research into animal populations and behaviour. The tiny automated devices, which can be left in remote areas for weeks at a time, are triggered by sudden changes in temperature.

Until now, the photographs that they produce have largely been kept below the radar: made public only via the publication of scientific research projects. Though they are often pretty and occasionally fascinating, the primary purpose of the images has been to inform professional ecologists.

That all changed yesterday, when the Smithsonian released a vast database of more than 202,000 "candid camera" shots, from seven major projects around the world, via its website. The collection is available for viewing to the public via the newly launched "Smithsonian Wild" website.

more
http://www.independent.co.uk/environment/nature/the-secret-life-of-animals-2230848.html


A tayra in Peru

[Buzz Clik]

1. Here's the link:

http://siwild.si.edu/

201,000 pics.

Dialup warning?

[DCKit]

2. Gotta love the cat with the laser eyes. nt

[femrap]

3. K and R

Love the animals....people, not so much!

Thx for posting.

[eppur_se_muova]

4. Oh dear ... making info available to poachers and traffickers ...

may be some unpleasant consequences.