K.I.S.S. Style
This quick guide shows how to install a solar camera birdhouse using a simple pole system.
Scroll through the steps below and jump to the part you need. Each section shows how we completed the project using the K.I.S.S. method — Keep It Simple, Silly.
Quick Navigation – Jump to the Step You Need
• Step 1 – Choose the Location
• Step 2 – Test the Wi-Fi Signal
• Step 3 – Gather Materials
• Step 4 – Install the Rebar Support
• Step 5 – Cut the PVC Pole
• Step 6 – Mount the Birdhouse
• Step 7 – Install the Solar Panel
• Step 8 – Install the Squirrel Baffle
• Final Check
Step 1 – Choose Location
Choose a quiet location where birds will feel safe.
• Avoid heavy foot traffic
• Morning sun is ideal
• Stay at least 10 feet from trees or fences squirrels can jump from
⚠ Before driving anything into the ground, call 811 to check for underground utilities. This service is free.
Step 2 – Test the Wi-Fi Signal
This camera requires a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network.
Stand where the birdhouse will be installed and check signal strength using your phone.
If the signal is weak:
• Move the location slightly
• Or install a Wi-Fi extender
Confirm the camera’s live video feed works smoothly before installing the pole.
Step 3 – Gather Materials
Included with the Birdhouse
• Camera birdhouse
• Solar panel
• Solar mounting bracket
• Interchangeable bird entrance plates
• Mounting hardware
Additional Materials
• 4-foot rebar
• 3/4 inch PVC pipe (minimum 8 feet before cutting)
• 90-degree mounting bracket
• Screws or bolts
• Micro SD card (4GB–128GB – not included)
Optional but recommended:
• Squirrel baffle
Step 4 – Install the Rebar Support
Drive the rebar about 1 foot into the ground.
If soil is soft, drive it deeper for added stability.
Keep the rebar level while hammering it in.
This method allows the birdhouse to be relocated later if needed.
Step 5 – Cut the PVC Pole
camera-birdhouse-step5.jpg
Cut the 3/4 inch PVC pipe to the desired height.
Different birds prefer different mounting heights, so research the species you want to attract.
Remember: The higher the birdhouse, the harder it will be to reach the camera later without a ladder.
Slide the PVC pipe over the rebar.
Optional: paint the pole black to blend with the background.
Step 6 – Mount the Birdhouse
Attach the 90-degree L bracket to the bottom of the birdhouse.
Make sure it is:
• Centered
• Flush with the back
⚠ Important:
Ensure the wood screws do not penetrate into the interior of the birdhouse, which could injure the birds.
Step 7 – Install the Solar Panel
For this project, the solar panel was mounted directly to the birdhouse.
Extra cable can be stored inside the top housing.
The included cable is about 15 feet long, allowing the panel to be mounted elsewhere if more sunlight is needed.
Step 8 – Install the Squirrel Baffle
While optional, a squirrel baffle is highly recommended.
It helps protect nesting birds from squirrels and snakes.
Install the baffle several feet below the birdhouse on the pole.
Final Check
Before leaving the install:
✔ Pole is level
✔ Camera video feed works smoothly
✔ Solar panel receives sunlight
✔ Baffle is secure
Now sit back and enjoy watching your backyard birds.
Keep It Simple, Silly
Simple tools.
Simple setup.
Backyard birds.