Buzz
You no longer need to venture into the wilderness or visit a zoo to experience the beauty of nature. Platforms like explore.org host a variety of animal livestreams, and many organizations operate their own animal cams around the clock. Below are some of our top picks for animal webcams that you’ll want to save for later.
1. Bella the Hummingbird
Since 2005, an Allen’s hummingbird (Selasphorus sasin) has been returning to a ficus tree in Southern California to build nests and raise her young. The homeowner, who remains unnamed, calls her Bella and set up a camera in 2012 to share her nesting journey with the world. You can watch Bella live as she cares for her nest, incubating her tiny eggs until they hatch.
2. Farm Animals at Flying Skunk Farm
For those who want to experience the charm of a working farm without the labor, tune into the live barnyard webcam at Flying Skunk Farm in Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts. The farm is home to chickens, ducks, geese, and goats. Equipped with a microphone, the webcam captures the lively sounds of honks, clucks, and crowing, creating a delightful backdrop for your online activities.
3. Rescue Kittens
Feral cats face significant challenges. Kittens born in the wild often struggle to survive, and adult feral cats are typically wary of humans, making adoption difficult. To address this, rescue organizations implement TNR (trap, neuter, return) initiatives. In British Columbia, TinyKittens
4. Future Service Dogs
This exceptional dog is training to assist army veterans in the future. | Jim Greenhill, Flickr // CC BY 2.0Get a behind-the-scenes look at the Warrior Canine Connection's Puppy Enrichment Center through this live cam, showcasing future service dogs destined to aid wounded veterans in rebuilding their lives and reconnecting with their families.
5. Marine Life at Folger Pinnacle Reef
An underwater live webcam reveals the unexpected wonders of the ocean. Ocean Networks Canada operates a webcam 75 feet below the surface, observing the Folger Pinnacle Reef near Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Natural light from above illuminates the scene during the day, while researchers activate underwater lights for five minutes each hour at night for enhanced viewing. Divers regularly maintain the camera, which is mounted on a platform alongside scientific instruments used to monitor this rockfish conservation area.
6. Bald Eagles
In 2014, a pair of bald eagles chose a tulip poplar tree at the U.S. National Arboretum in Washington, D.C., as their nesting site and have returned to it every year since. Known as Mr. President and The First Lady, these majestic birds are monitored by cameras set up by the American Eagle Foundation.
7. Giant Pandas
The Smithsonian National Zoological Park’s panda cam offers a live glimpse into the daily lives of Tian Tian and Mei Xiang as they relax, munch on bamboo, and enjoy playful moments in their habitat. Available around the clock, the cameras allow you to observe these beloved pandas anytime.
8. African Penguins
Head to your computer to enjoy the antics of African penguins. | WallyPhotography/iStock via Getty ImagesThe San Diego Zoo is home to a thriving colony of African penguins, one of the most endangered penguin species. Tune in here to watch these charming birds as they waddle and flap about. Don’t forget to keep an eye on the water, where you might catch a glimpse of a leopard shark.
9. Jellyfish
Looking for a calming escape? Tune into the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s jelly cam to watch sea nettles gracefully drift through the water, their movements resembling a mesmerizing dance. While their flowing tentacles are used to sting and capture prey, you can safely enjoy their beauty from the comfort of your home.
10. Giraffes
The Houston Zoo offers a unique opportunity to observe giraffes as they roam alongside zebras and ostriches. With the ability to control the camera’s angle, viewers can enjoy an interactive experience, though patience may be required if others are adjusting the view.
