We’ve launched!
WE ARE HOWLING WITH EXCITEMENT!
We’re thrilled to officially launch Snapshot NY — a statewide trail camera project that invites New Yorkers to take part in wildlife research and conservation like never before. It’s been a long time coming, but it’s finally here!! We have been working hard to make sure every aspect of this project is exciting, efficient, and easy to understand. We’ve developed this website as a one stop shop for all your project needs!
Need to know how to sign up? We got you. Need to know how to set up a trail camera? We got you there too! Need to know super specific facts about otters? Yep you guessed it, we got you.
What Is Snapshot NY?
Snapshot NY is a community-powered initiative designed to capture candid moments of New York’s mammals across forests, farms, cities, and suburbs. By contributing images from motion-activated trail cameras, participants are helping scientists build a comprehensive picture of mammal distribution, population size, and biodiversity throughout the state.
This project isn’t just about science—it’s about community, discovery, and action. Snapshot NY is a citizen science project that harnesses the power of everyday New Yorkers to collect real data on wild mammals. Participants sign up, choose a trial camera grid cell, deploy cameras, and upload wildlife photos to our growing research database.
Whether you're a seasoned naturalist, hunter, trapper, or someone who simply loves wildlife, you can take part. No previous experience is necessary—just a bit of curiosity and a trail camera.
Why It Matters
New York is home to a rich diversity of mammals—from black bears in the Catskills to foxes in the suburbs and martens in the Adirondacks. Yet, much of their activity goes unseen.
Snapshot NY is changing that. By spreading trail cameras across the entire state, we’ll uncover where species are thriving, where they’re struggling, and how we can better manage and protect their habitats. These data support real-world decisions made by biologists, land managers, and policymakers.
Your photos could help answer questions like:
How are mammals adapting to urban environments?
Are species shifting their ranges due to climate change?
What areas are hotspots for mammal biodiversity?
Where are rare or elusive species showing up?
Where are game species most abundant?
How It Works
With the Snapshot NY app, getting involved is easy:
Create an account and explore available grid cells to survey.
Apply for a grid cell to place your trail camera.
Deploy your camera and upload your wildlife images.
Track your contributions and view wildlife sightings across the state.
Join the Movement
Snapshot NY is more than a research project. It’s a chance to:
Connect with your local environment
Learn about the mammals that live near you
Contribute to meaningful science
Join a growing community of wildlife stewards
Whether you capture a bobcat slinking through the snow or a curious raccoon under the stars, every image adds to a powerful story about New York’s wild residents.
Ready to make your mark on wildlife research?
Sign up today and deploy your first trail camera — New York’s mammals are waiting to be discovered!
Follow our journey on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and X! Don’t forget to keep an eye on our latest news page to stay in the loop on sightings, science updates, and new opportunities.
We are so excited to get started, and help you get started too! Check out our resources and get involved pages for more information on how to become a Snapshot NY-er! Don’t hesitate to reach out with any comments, questions, or concerns!
Sincerely,
The Snapshot NY team