NatureSpy are a team of wildlife biologists and we put wildlife cameras to the test in the field. The curated range of wildlife watching equipment that we sell is equipment we believe in. As a conservation social enterprise, the profits from our camera sales go into supporting wildlife conservation projects.
In this guide, we share 3 different camera models that we think are excellent for garden wildlife watching. Why not just one all round winner? That’s because wildlife cameras (also known as trail cameras) contain a host of different features, and different models excel in different areas. So, whether your priority is best video quality, a decent camera on a budget or remote camera control via a phone app, we hope you’ll find what you’re looking for. If not, please get in touch and our team will be happy to help.
For newcomers to wildlife cameras, you’ll find our frequently asked questions at the end of this guide, covering how trail cameras work, camera placement and more.
Overall, the WiFi WildCam 2 is optimised for garden wildlife, the Browning HP5 offers top-notch video quality, and the Ursus Trail Cam is a budget-friendly, versatile option.
Optimised for Garden Wildlife – NatureSpy WiFi WildCam 2 (£119.99)
Best Video Quality – Browning Recon Force Elite HP5 (£184.99)
Brilliant Versatility on a Budget – NatureSpy Ursus (£104.99)
Before we jump into a breakdown of each model, we’ll briefly cover two important considerations to help with choosing a camera: trail camera type and flash.
There are two main types of trail camera available: traditional trail cameras that store footage on a memory card and wireless trail cameras that transmit footage via cellular/mobile or WiFi.
What does this mean for camera performance? It’s a trade off between image quality vs. convenience. Traditional trail cameras tend to offer better image quality, whereas wireless trail cameras provide the convenience of being able to check a camera remotely – which means instant updates.
Pros: Straightforward to use, typically much better video quality compared to wireless counterparts. The current best quality video comes from traditional trail cameras.
Cons: Manually check memory card.
Pros: Can be checked remotely, some models can be viewed live in real-time.
Cons: Typically reduced image quality compared to traditional trail cameras due to limitations with transmitting footage wirelessly.
Trail cameras are designed to be discreet, utilising infrared flash technology at night, so that the scene isn’t illuminated with bright light which could scare away some wildlife. This means that night-time images appear in black and white. There are two types of infrared flash: low-glow and no-glow. Low-glow produces better quality images but produces a dim red glow when operating at night (similar to that of a TV standby light). No-glow does not produce any visible light, making it a stealthier option, but as a result, image clarity is decreased. Some cameras also feature white/colour flash, much like a traditional camera flash, but we recommend using this with caution as it can disturb natural animal behaviours at night. To learn more about the pros and cons of flash types, see this article.
NatureSpy WiFi WildCam 2 (£119.99)
Type: Wireless camera, requires WiFi network connection
Video Resolution: 1080p at 25fps
Trigger Speed: 3s (approx.)
Flash: Low-glow or colour
Battery Type: Internal rechargeable battery, solar panel compatible
Unique Features: WiFi connection enables camera control via NatureSpy smartphone app, including remote playback and live view.
The NatureSpy WiFi WildCam 2 builds on the popular first generation WildCam and is optimised for watching UK wildlife in gardens. Video resolution is 1080p at 25fps, the wide-angle lens fits a lot into the frame and the motion sensor is designed with garden wildlife in mind, so it’s ideal for watching hedgehogs, birds and more. The night-time flash can be switched between low-glow infrared and colour. This camera is well suited to closer, more detailed images, with a minimum focal range of approximately 30cm, which is much closer than a typical trail camera. It also works well in typical trail camera sweet-spot ranges of 1.5 – 5m too.
The WiFi WildCam 2 requires a consistent connection to a wireless internet router and is controlled via the NatureSpy smart phone app, where there are options to stream live, receive notifications when an animal pops by, replay footage and adjust the camera settings. It comes with a silicone weather-resistant cover, a built-in rechargeable battery, a mounting bracket and tripod mount. A solar panel can be bought separately to keep the battery topped up.
Overall, the NatureSpy WiFi WildCam 2 produces good quality images and packs a lot of convenient features and remote control capabilities that make it a user-friendly choice for garden wildlife watching.
Browning Recon Force Elite HP5 (£184.99)
Type: Trail camera
Video Resolution: 1080p at 60fps
Trigger Speed: 0.3s video, 0.02s photo
Flash: Low-glow
Battery Type: Lithium AA (recommended) or rechargeable AA
Standout Features: Best-in-class video quality and outstanding detection circuit
Excellent quality video is often the most sought-after feature of a trail camera. Browning trail cameras are renowned for high quality images, outstanding detection circuits, versatile features and rugged housing; the key ingredients of a great trail camera! They have been our most popular choice of trail camera with conservation projects over the last 5 years as they can withstand all kinds of climates while reliably producing excellent quality video.
The Browning Recon Force Elite HP5 is a top of the range trail camera and has been a popular camera since its release in 2022, owing to its video quality. Building on the successful Recon Force range, the Elite HP5 features best in class video quality, a wider field of view than previous models and a lightning-fast trigger (0.3s video / 0.2s photo). 1080p HD video at 60 frames per second means that the footage produced by the Elite HP5 far outperforms many 4K trail cameras, as they usually lack the smooth video quality of 60fps. The clear, detailed audio quality is by far the best of any camera in this list and the 24MP camera also takes great photos.
Example photo from the Recon Force Elite HP5
The Recon Force Elite HP5 comes with a range of useful, user-friendly features, such as a forward-facing screen to make setups easy and a capture timer so the camera can be set to engage during certain times of day (e.g. for nocturnal wildlife). It is one of few trail cameras that can work well with rechargeable batteries, we recommend Panasonic Eneloop Pro AA batteries for best performance.
The Recon Force Elite HP5 features a low-glow infrared LED flash. Browning offers a stealthier no-glow infrared flash model, the Browning Spec Ops Elite HP5, which does not emit any visible light at night, but comes with a downside of slightly decreased image clarity.
Overall, the Browning Recon Force Elite HP5 is our current go-to trail camera for excellent video quality. Learn more about the Elite HP5 in our deep dive.
NatureSpy Ursus (£104.99)
Type: Trail camera
Video Resolution: 1080p at 30fps
Trigger Speed: 0.6s video, 0.3s photo
Flash: No-glow
Battery Type: Lithium AA recommended
Standout Features: Good quality video, versatile features and robust build quality
Designed to be an affordable and versatile wildlife camera, the NatureSpy Ursus trail camera produces high-quality video and is just as at home in a garden as it is in a rainforest. The design and build of the Ursus reflects our experience in the field with conservation projects along with customer demand for feature-packed, capable, yet more affordable trail camera. It can record video (1080p at 30fps), take photos (30MP) and capture timelapse photography, all within a dustproof and waterproof IP67-rated housing.
The Ursus is a user-friendly camera, with a 2.4” colour screen and it features a no-glow infrared LED flash, the most discreet kind of flash available on a trail camera, emitting no visible glow when recording at night.
Overall, the NatureSpy Ursus is a budget-friendly, good-quality trail camera with a versatile range of features that are normally associated with higher-end cameras. Although it doesn’t match the video quality of cameras like the Browning Elite HP5, it’s a capable camera available at a fraction of the price, producing good-quality images. Learn more about the NatureSpy Ursus in our deep dive.
Very little additional equipment is needed to get up and running with a trail camera in a garden. Once setup with a camera, there are three considerations: Power, memory card and mounting.
Some cameras come with built-in rechargeable batteries (e.g. NatureSpy WiFi Wildcam 2). For cameras that run off disposable batteries, we highly recommend Energizer Ultimate Lithium AA batteries, we’ve found that trail cameras perform best with these batteries both in terms of responsiveness and power longevity. In the case of rechargeable battery-compatible cameras, we recommend Panasonic Eneloop Pro AA. Learn more about the best batteries for trail cameras here.
Trail cameras typically require either an SD card or Micro SD card to operate. Some feature built-in memory, but this is uncommon. All cameras that we supply come with a free SD card. Learn more about SD cards and trail cams here.
Trail cameras come with either a strap, mounting bracket or sometimes both, providing options for how and where it can be placed. A tripod mount is also a common feature. Tripod mounting a trail camera provides a lot of flexibility for garden setups, allowing users to place the camera in a variety of locations through a garden without relying on a tree or post to attach the camera to. Normal tripods work great, and we also sell a MiniPod, which is a good option for getting closer to the action with hedgehogs and smaller wildlife.
How do I record wildlife in my garden?
To record wildlife in your garden, set up a wildlife camera in strategic locations, provide food and water sources, create a habitat-friendly environment, and be patient. Consider the activities of the wildlife you’re hoping to record. For example, the nocturnal antics of hedgehogs are typically recorded when they are out of hibernation between March and November.
How do I record wildlife in my garden at night?
To record wildlife in your garden at night, use a trail camera with night vision capabilities, such as an infrared flash.
How do wildlife cameras work?
Wildlife cameras use motion sensors that detect the movement and body heat of animals, which triggers the camera to take photos or record videos. These recordings are saved onto a memory card for viewing later, or some models can transmit images wirelessly through WiFi or cellular networks. They also have infrared or flash capabilities for night-time recording. See our How Camera Traps Work article to learn more.
Do trail cameras record constantly?
Trail cameras have motion-activated sensors that save battery life and storage space by only recording when there is movement within the field of view.
Are trail cameras weatherproof?
Yes, most trail cameras are designed to be weather resistant, allowing them to withstand various outdoor conditions such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures. Moisture is the most common cause of problems with trail cameras. See our Trail Camera Tips for Heavy Rain article to learn more.
Where should a wildlife camera be placed in a garden?
Place a wildlife camera in your garden near natural features like trees, water sources, or feeding areas. Position it at animal entry points, such as a gap in a hedge, or along known animal trails for the best chance of capturing wildlife activity. See our Camera Trap Placement Guide to learn more.
What is the difference between a trail camera and a wildlife camera?
The terms “trail camera”, “wildlife camera” and “camera trap” are often used interchangeably. All refer to cameras designed for capturing wildlife images and videos in outdoor environments.
What is the difference between a trail camera and an outdoor security camera?
A trail camera is specifically designed for capturing wildlife activity, while an outdoor security camera is intended for monitoring and securing property. Trail cameras often have longer battery life, higher durability, and specialied features for wildlife photography. See our What is a Trail Camera article to learn more.
How can I watch hedgehogs at night?
To watch hedgehogs at night, set up a wildlife camera near hedgehog feeding areas, entry points or known paths they frequent. Ensure the camera has night vision capabilities, and consider using a hedgehog-friendly feeding station. See How to Watch Hedgehogs in a Garden for hedgehog monitoring top tips.
Do wildlife cameras need WiFi?
No, wildlife cameras do not necessarily require WiFi. Most wildlife cameras store the recorded images and videos onto a memory card, which can be later accessed and transferred to a computer for viewing without the need for WiFi connectivity. An exception to this is a camera such as the NatureSpy WiFi WildCam 2, which requires a consistent WiFi connection to work.
