To make sure your Birdbuddy camera operates optimally, please follow these care guidelines for charging, storage, and cleaning. Proper maintenance will help extend the life and functionality of your device while also keeping it safe to use for your feathered friends.
Birdbuddy 2
Charging
The Birdbuddy2 camera module uses an external 3900mAh battery, which is located in the housing itself, powered by two solar panels. When you first set up your Birdbuddy 2, there is no need to charge the battery. Simply insert the camera module and begin the in-app pairing process.
If your battery is depleted or is not able to remain charged via the solar panels, you can charge the battery using the USB-C cable.
There are two ways to charge the battery:
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You can remove the battery and solar insert from the housing.
First, open the back panel to access the battery pack. Remove any extra seeds in the housing to access the battery insert.There are two snaps located on each side of the battery insert. To remove the insert, press both snaps simultaneously and lift up the solar roof and battery insert:
To charge the battery, lift up the flap protecting the USB-C port and plug the battery in for 4-5 hours.We recommend using this time to clean the entire housing!
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Charge the battery insert by opening the back panel
You can easily charge the battery by opening the back panel, lifting up the flap protecting the USB-C port, and charging the battery for 4-5 hours, without having to remove any parts of the housing.
Look for an LED light above the USB-C port. When it's blinking orange, the battery is charging. When it's green, the battery is fully charged.
Always use a reputable USB-C to USB-C cable to charge the Birdbuddy.
Do not use USB-A to USB-C, as it doesn’t support modern “smart” power negotiation (like USB-C Power Delivery), so it can’t properly control or adjust charging output for higher-power devices. USB-A to USB-C cables can lead to unstable, slow, or unreliable charging, and we recommend USB-C to USB-C instead.
Storage
Extreme temperatures can affect the capacity of your camera module battery and reduce the device's lifetime. If the outside temperature is significantly below or above the operational range of the device (below -5°F / -20°C or above 120°F / 50°C), temporarily store your feeder inside.
To store only the camera module itself, you can simply remove it from the housing and store it inside (in a dry location protected from severe temperatures).
Cleaning
To clean the housing, we recommend taking the feeder apart. If your housing is mounted, lift the feeder to dislodge it from the pole.
First, remove the back panel.
To remove the back panel, we recommend turning the feeder upside down and placing it in your lap.
Once upside down, locate the two indents.
Hold the feeder with both hands, put your thumbs on the semi-transparent plastic in between the two indents. With your thumbs, push downwards and then outwards (away from the blue housing).
This will slide the back panel out.
It can be more difficult and robust the first couple of times you do it, but it should be easier afterwards.
Note: there is no need to press on the indents directly; they are there as guidelines, general pressure on the back panel inwards and out will dislodge them.
Next, press the two buttons on the battery and solar insert inwards, so you can lift it and remove both the battery insert and solar panels from the main housing.
We recommend using both hands for easier access to get the buttons to snap into the opening.
To remove the front panel, gently push it from the back side at the areas where it is snapped into the main housing, and it will snap out of the housing easily.
When cleaning the main housing, ensure to clean the area below the perch as well, as dirt can accumulate under it.
Important notice: every part of the housing can be submerged in water and cleaned with soap, except the battery insert with the solar roofs and the camera.
Those should only be wiped down and taken out of the housing before you proceed with cleaning the rest.
Original Birdbuddy camera module / Nature Cam Pro
Charging
Protect the USB-C Charging Port
When the camera module is not charging, use protective silicone plugs to prevent dirt, debris, or moisture from entering the USB-C charging port.
Inspect Before Charging
Before charging your Camera Module, inspect the USB-C charging port and clear away any dirt, debris, or moisture. Plug the charging cable in gently without forcing it in. It should click into place easily.
Use the Recommended Cable
We recommend using a USB-C to USB-C cable to charge your camera module. The charging brick is not included in your order but most modern wall adapters, especially those designed for recent smartphones or tablets, will work. Any adapter that outputs 7.5 W (5V/1.5A) or more will work.
Always use a reputable USB-C to USB-C cable to charge the Birdbuddy.
Do not use USB-A to USB-C, as it doesn’t support modern “smart” power negotiation (like USB-C Power Delivery), so it can’t properly control or adjust charging output for higher-power devices. USB-A to USB-C cables can lead to unstable, slow, or unreliable charging, and we recommend USB-C to USB-C instead.
Solar Roof Charging
If you are using the solar roof, please make sure the protective silicone rim of the solar roof charging cable is fitted snugly to the top of your camera module and that the plastic wrapping is removed from the solar roof panel.
Avoid Continuous Power
We advise against plugging the camera module into a continuous electrical power source as this may cause permanent damage to the device.
Storage
Extreme temperatures can affect the capacity of your camera module battery and reduce the device's lifetime. If the outside temperature is significantly below or above the operational range of the device (below -5°F / -20°C or above 120°F / 50°C), temporarily store your device inside.
Long-Term Storage
It is not recommended to store your Camera Module away for a long period of time. If longer storage is necessary, charge the Camera Module to at least 50-80% battery and store it at a temperature above 0°C / 32°F in a dry and cool place.
Cleaning
Cleaning the Camera
Try avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive materials to clean your camera module. We recommend using a mild cleaner and a damp microfiber cloth for the lens. Additionally, wipe the lens every now and then, as water specks and other debris can prevent good photos from being taken.
Cleaning the USB-C port
To clear away any dirt or debris from the USB-C charging port, use a clean and dry microfiber cloth. If moisture is present, ensure it is thoroughly dried. To clear away any stubborn dirt or debris that is lodged deep inside the USB-C charging port, use a vacuum cleaner with a small nozzle, compressed air, or a soft cotton swab lightly dipped in pure alcohol. A non-metal pick, like a plastic toothpick, can be very effective for gently dislodging any stubborn particles. After cleaning, ensure you give it plenty of time to dry thoroughly.
Inspect the port for any damage, especially to the central plastic "tongue." If this part is undamaged and clean, the cord should click into place without needing to apply any force.
Cleaning the Housing
To ensure your Birdbuddy feeder is safe for birds, regular cleaning of the housing is essential. For instructions on how to take care of the housing, see our recommendations here.
For detailed instructions on cleaning your Hummingbird Feeder, check out our guide here.
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