Video: Unique Holiday Gift - Birdwatchers' New Tech Tool Provides Extra Eyes and Makes Sharing a Snap

BIRMINGHAM, Ala., Nov. 15 /PRNewswire/ -- The popularity of birdwatching and backyard bird feeding has exploded in recent years, but hectic work schedules limit how much time birdwatchers can spend enjoying their hobby. Technology is solving that problem while helping bird enthusiasts get a closer look than was previously possible.

To view the Multimedia News Release, go to: http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/wingscapes/30617/

The recently introduced Wingscapes BirdCam is a motion-activated, weatherproof camera that takes digital photos and videos of birds. Images can be viewed on a TV or downloaded to any computer, where they can be emailed, printed, or posted to the web.

"The BirdCam gives birdwatchers three things they always need: a close-up view, extra time, and a record of their sighting." says Bart Stephens, Product Manager of Wingscapes and developer of the BirdCam.

A collection of stunning photos and videos taken by the BirdCam is available at the Wingscapes website www.wingscapes.com and the company's YouTube Channel at www.youtube.com/wingscapes.

The BirdCam appeals to a wide variety of bird enthusiasts. Early fans include birders who share images on the web, biologists who are using the BirdCam in field research, and hobbyists who are using images from their backyard to create gifts and art.

The broad appeal of the BirdCam does not surprise Stephens, who explains, "It dramatically increases the number of birds and behaviors you see, and provides a very close look.

Although operating the BirdCam will be simple for anyone who has used a digital camera, it is actually an impressive technological innovation.

Here is how it works: the 3.1 megapixel camera uses an infrared sensor to detect a moving bird. The sensor ensures that only images with birds and animals will be taken -- not empty photographs of a swinging bird feeder. The BirdCam takes photos, short videos, or a combination -- depending on user setting. Images can be downloaded to a computer or viewed on a TV.

The BirdCam is proving to be a popular holiday gift. "Everyone who hears about the BirdCam knows someone who they want to give it to." says Stephens.

The Wingscapes BirdCam retails for $249 and is available from Wingscapes by calling toll-free (888) 811-9464 or visiting www.wingscapes.com