Screenshot of a bobcat spotted on a trail camera

USGS researchers at the New York Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit are using trail cameras to track bobcats, black bears, and coyotes across New York. The researchers created an online database where the public can report wildlife sightings. Citizen science helps the researchers gather important information about these species’ populations and locations. The main goal of large-scale conservation efforts is to conserve or maintain these animals across their ranges and to provide up-to-date distribution maps. Currently, for most species, information on populations and locations is either lacking or informed by expert opinion. Understanding where these animals live and how many there is vital for effective conservation. By combining camera surveys with public reports, this research reveals information on wildlife in ways that traditional methods can’t.