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Infrared Cameras Capture Rarely Seen Animals On Pt. Reyes Seashore

POINT REYES (CBS SF) - Over nearly two decades, a system of wildlife cameras have captured some of the most rarely spotted California animals along the Point Reyes National Seashore.

The U.S. Geological Survey cameras were set up following a major 1995 fire to see how well local wildlife bounced back, according to a Marin Independent Journal report. The photos and video are triggered by infrared motion detectors and have captured weasels, bobcats, mountain lions, spotted skunks and even beavers, according to the report.

In all 26 mammals have been spotted, along with 30 types of birds.

USGS researchers said the findings indicate that most species recovered well from the fire. Some known species, including porcupines and ring-tailed cats have escaped the cameras.

(Copyright 2012 by CBS San Francisco. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

 

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