Monitoring biodiversity with camera traps has revolutionized ecological research, enabling scientists and conservationists to collect millions of images across broad spatial and temporal scales. Yet, managing this explosion of data — from annotation to analysis — remains a major challenge. Thankfully, the open-source ecosystem has responded with powerful solutions.

In this article, we review the most prominent open-source camera trap software tools in 2025. Each has its strengths — whether you're conducting local fieldwork or coordinating a multi-partner conservation initiative.

1. TRAPPER – A Collaborative Web-Based Platform

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Built on Django (Python), TRAPPER is a flexible, web-based application designed to support collaborative camera trap projects. Features include:

Spatially-enabled database backend
Support for photos and videos
API access for integrations
Project-level permissions and collaboration
Customizable classification workflows

Ideal for: Research consortia and large-scale ecological projects requiring spatial and team-based management.

2. Camelot – Simple, Stable, and Great for Reporting

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Camelot provides a lightweight yet powerful platform for organizing and analyzing camera trap data. Key benefits:

Streamlined database for trap, species, and deployment metadata
Multi-user support
Built-in reporting tools compatible with camtrapR and PRESENCE

Ideal for: Researchers seeking ease of use, fast annotation, and export-ready datasets.

3. Declas – AI-Powered Filtering and Classification

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Declas (v1.0.0) offers cutting-edge automation powered by MegaDetector:

Batch processing of large image sets
Filtering of empty images
Species classification and tagging
Export in JSON and CSV formats

Ideal for: Large-scale biodiversity studies needing automated workflows.

4. camtrapR – Advanced Analysis in R

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camtrapR is a widely used R package for processing and analyzing camera trap data:

Full control over workflows
Designed for occupancy and abundance modeling
Extensive documentation

Ideal for: Statistically oriented researchers and R users.

5. PICT – DIY Hardware for Specialized Applications

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PICT (Plant-Insect Interactions Camera Trap) is an open-source hardware and software solution based on Raspberry Pi Zero:

Modular and low-cost
Designed for close-range, fine-scale ecological interactions
Fully customizable for novel research designs

Ideal for: Innovators and researchers needing bespoke or experimental camera trap setups.

6. EcoSecrets – Scalable, Standardized, and Field-Tested

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Developed by Natural Solutions, EcoSecrets is a web platform built specifically for the realities of ecological monitoring:

Centralized media management (images and videos)
Standardized annotation of species and behavior
Site, deployment, and hardware tracking
Interoperability with GIS and biodiversity data platforms
Designed for multi-site, multi-season field projects

Unlike general-purpose solutions, EcoSecrets was developed with and for ecologists — enabling fast onboarding, robust standardization, and collaborative project delivery in real-world conservation contexts.

Ideal for: NGOs, protected area managers, environmental consultants, and public institutions seeking a durable, open-source solution rooted in field needs.

Ready to Streamline Your Camera Trap Projects?

Whether you’re running a pilot in a forest reserve or leading a national-scale monitoring program, the right camera trap software can save you hundreds of hours and unlock powerful insights.

💡 Natural Solutions can support you in designing, deploying, and scaling your wildlife monitoring infrastructure. We provide: