“Unfortunately a cloud-only device, seemingly using TuyaCloud for cloud storage and access to recorded videos, as well as notifications etc. Ok if you have reliable fast broadband connection available at the camera, otherwise this may not be for you.
Takes a few seconds from PIR detection to recording video. Ok if the wildlife isn't too fast moving or too close.
Seems to stop recordings after a fixed time, regardless of whether there's still motion. Ok if you're just looking for detection and not too fussed about behaviour.
Solar panel and PIR motion detection mean it so far seems to have limitless battery life, still at 100% even in sheltered overcast conditions.
With the mention of zero ongoing subscription costs and the internal SD card, my expectation was that the device would record to the internal SD card, and these recordings could be accessed locally over WiFi (without a fast broadband connection). Unfortunately that's not the case - access to the recordings or to the live view of the camera is via an online connection to the TuyaCloud servers through the NatureSpy miniapp and it flakes out with a slow or unreliable internet connection.
The closest thing I can find to what I want though, so until I spend the time building a PIR triggered and solar powered android IP Webcam device, or work out a way to de-cloud this device, it'll have to do.”
Hi Andrew,
Thanks for the review! It seems like you were expecting this to do something that it doesn't do, but happy to clarify.
A fast internet connection is not required - it'll run on a 2mbps connection, no problem. We've not actually had a single returned unit based on internet speeds, in over a year since launch.
It does indeed stop recording after a fixed time - you set the video length in the settings. After a trigger, it then records for this length and stops, until it is triggered again.
The camera does record to the internal SD card. To access these recordings, live feed, settings, and receive notifications, it does require an internet connection. This is also so the camera can be accessed from wherever you are in the world.
Of course, if you'd prefer to return the camera please just let us know!
“I bought this for my wife for her birthday. And I have to say it is an amazing gift! She watches it almost 24/7! The picture quality is amazing as is it's motion detector. The playback facility is excellent. If I could give this 10 stars I would!”
“This is the fourth wildlilfe camera which I have had, the first three being different brands, and it is by far the best. The WiFi connection makes it the most simple to use and means that the recordings are easily accessible no matter where I am. This camera is so good that after only a month of use I have just ordered another one for a different part of the garden. I can highly recommend this for watching the hedgehogs and seeing all the other creatures visiting the garden at night - and the local Houdini cat who can contort to manoeuvre himself into the hedgehog feeding station!”
“Very pleased with equipment - camera takes clear pictures and is easy to set up. App makes tracking progress throughout the day simple, though it would be helpful to be able to download video clips rather than have to record these.”
