How Engineers Hack Cameras to Photograph and Study Sharks and Lions | National Geographic

TL;DR

Crittercam is a camera device that captures scientific data and POV imagery from animals, including great white sharks and seals.

Transcript

Crittercam was an animal born imaging device it's basically a camera plus a bunch of sensors for collecting scientific data as well as point-of-view imagery this was the first HD credit cam we actually made we built that camera in like three months and had to try to put cameras on the great white sharks the process to put a camera on a shark is you... Read More

Key Insights

• 👻 Crittercam allows scientists to gain unique insights into the behavior and perspectives of animals, such as great white sharks and seals.
• 🛩️ Over time, Crittercam has become smaller and more advanced, making it easier to attach to various animals without causing harm.
• 🫵 Crittercam helps to create a closer connection between viewers and animals by capturing footage from their point of view.
• 👨‍🔬 The development of Crittercam has revolutionized wildlife research and filmmaking, enabling scientists and filmmakers to capture captivating footage without disturbing or endangering animals.
• 🤍 The process of placing cameras on animals like great white sharks requires patience, precision, and understanding of animal behavior.
• 👻 Crittercam has allowed for the documentation of animal behavior that was previously difficult to capture, such as interactions between lionesses and their cubs.
• 💨 National Geographic aims to prioritize showcasing animals in a way that highlights their importance and encourages empathy towards them.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does Crittercam capture footage from great white sharks?

To put a camera on a shark, a person lures the shark with a tuna on a rope while someone else uses a shark pole to attach the camera to the shark's dorsal fin when it charges at the bait.

Q: How did the creators overcome the challenge of getting the camera on a shark?

The challenge was timing the camera placement while the shark momentarily closes its eyes during the charge. The creators had to quickly attach the camera during this brief moment.

Q: What was the first Crittercam like?

The first Crittercam, developed in the late 80s to early 90s, used an eight millimeter tape and was enclosed in a fiberglass waterproof housing. It was put on various animals, including seals.

Q: How do animals react to Crittercam?

Animals typically take a few days to get used to the equipment. Once they realize the camera is not a threat and cannot be eaten, they lose interest and allow the camera to capture their perspectives.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Crittercam is an animal-born imaging device that combines a camera and sensors for collecting scientific data and point-of-view footage.

• The first HD Crittercam was created in just three months and successfully put on great white sharks using a bait and pole system.

• Crittercam has evolved over the years, becoming smaller and more adaptable, allowing animals to get used to the equipment.