wildlife Cameras
Give Todayhelp us keep an eye on wildlife
Thanks to generous support from the Oregon Wildlife Foundation and private donors, Yakona Nature Preserve is home to 45 active wildlife trail cameras. These cameras provide a unique window into the lives of local wildlife, capturing their movements and behaviors on trails and in specially designed habitat piles that mimic the conditions of an old-growth forest.
what we’re seeing
Our wildlife cameras have recorded some incredible moments—from black bears, coyotes, and bobcats to bald eagles, Roosevelt elk, and a colorful cast of birds. These candid glimpses offer valuable insights into the preserve's rich biodiversity.
Alongside the beauty, our cameras also reveal challenges—like dogs, unauthorized biking and hiking, and smoking in sensitive areas. These issues have led us to restrict the preserve to escorted access only, to better protect both wildlife and habitat.
how the cameras are used
High school and college students analyze the data these cams provide, helping us determine trails wildlife use and how animals are using the habitat piles and large woody debris structures placed in recently thinned forest stands
why we need your help
Internet service costs $150 per year for each camera. When you choose to sponsor a wildlife camera, you’ll receive exclusive access to your camera’s live feed of still images—a front-row seat to the wonders of the wild.
sponsor a wildlife camera
Your support helps us protect the preserve, monitor wildlife, and share the magic of Yakona with the community.