Drain cam turned “snake cam” protects species at risk at Big Creek NWA

“All possible steps were taken to prevent wildlife losses”

“I wanted to show as much care to the area as possible,” says Krete. “The articulated camera allowed us to explore the many twists and turns of the holes in the dike system. Muskrats and other rodents had done real damage to it and there were holes everywhere. Since snakes are opportunists, using existing holes to hibernate in, I thought chances were good this exploration would ensure all the possible steps were taken to prevent any wildlife losses.”

The restoration project was carried out by the Canadian Wildlife Service, on behalf of the Government of Canada, in collaboration with DUC. The work had to be done while wildlife was overwintering and work focused on the dike’s southern loop Part of the work involved the maintenance of existing dike infrastructure for structural stability. The holes make perfect hibernacula for snakes and the team wanted to do all they could to rule out their presence prior to the work being carried out.

The Big Creek NWA shelters many threatened species, including eastern fox snake, eastern hog-nosed snake, least bittern, Blanding’s turtle and Fowler’s toad. The wetland and adjacent habitats are bustling with activity from spring to late fall with waterfowl migration, turtle nesting and the monarch butterfly migration in August and September.

In the span of four hours one afternoon, Krete inspected more than 40 holes. He says the camera has now become part of DUC’s fleet of equipment, and with its ability to record both video and still photos, the opportunities for its future use are limitless.

“Protecting species at risk is a very big deal,” Krete says. “And something we at DUC take seriously. It may seem like tedious work, but it gives us the confidence that we’re using the latest technology available to protect wildlife. I can see us using the camera in many future applications, including to investigate existing DUC infrastructure, such as culverts and water control systems. It’s another tool in our toolbox.”