Data for: Home security cameras as a tool for behavior observations and science equity

Reliably capturing transient animal behavior in the field and laboratory remains a logistical and financial challenge, especially for small ectotherms. Here, we present a camera system that is affordable, accessible, and suitable to monitor small, cold-blooded animals historically overlooked by commercial camera traps, such as small amphibians. The system is weather-resistant, can operate offline or online, and allows collection of time-sensitive behavioral data in laboratory and field conditions with continuous data storage for up to four weeks. The lightweight camera can also utilize phone notifications over Wi-Fi so that observers can be alerted when animals enter a space of interest, enabling sample collection at proper time periods. We present our findings, both technological and scientific, in an effort to elevate tools that enable researchers to maximize use of their research budgets. We discuss the relative affordability of our system for researchers in South America, which is home to the largest population of ectotherm diversity.

在野外与实验室环境中可靠记录瞬时动物行为始终是一项兼具后勤与经费挑战的工作，对于小型变温动物（ectotherms）而言尤为如此。本文介绍一套经济实惠、易于获取且适配小型冷血动物监测的摄像系统——这类小型动物长期以来被商用相机陷阱所忽视，例如小型两栖类。该系统具备耐候性，支持离线或在线运行，可在实验室与野外环境中采集时效性行为数据，连续存储时长可达四周。这款轻量化相机还可通过Wi-Fi推送手机通知，当动物进入目标观测区域时即可提醒观测者，便于研究者在恰当时机开展样本采集。我们在此分享这套系统的技术与科研成果，以期优化研究工具，帮助研究者最大化利用其研究经费。此外，我们还探讨了该系统对于南美洲研究者的相对经济优势——南美洲是全球变温动物多样性最丰富的区域。