Camera traps = hidden cameras + rare animals

Camera traps result in some pretty wonderful/hilarious photography, as evidenced by the 2012 BBC Wildlife Camera-trap Photo of the Year contest. These cameras are motion and light sensitive, and are used to spy on some of the rarest (and shyest) animals on Earth.

"As forward leaps in technology go, camera-traps have been relatively unsung. Yet the introduction of sensitive, affordable digital camera-traps has proved to be one of the most important developments for field researchers, effectively multiplying the eyes of scientists and conservation workers.

Camera-traps don’t need to sleep or eat, but keep constant watch on key patches of habitat, ready to detect the action and providing priceless insights into wildlife movements, populations and distribution.

Established in 2010, this competition recognises the most visually exciting or significant camera-trap images taken by conservationists around the world. It offers us the opportunity to share the discoveries and triumphs of field researchers, and those organisations the chance to win funding for their projects."

Head on over to their website and check out the gallery!