I've had deer stare at the camera area and even sniff it. Now, with the deeper snow, 1 1/2 to two feet in the bush, the deer are even following my trail to the camera. I guess they find it easier than making there own trail. One even walked right by the camera brushing it with its body. Rain, humidity, fog, snow or wind will disperse scent pretty quick. As mentioned above, I use bare hands to set up or work with the camera. This may not be the best, but try removing an SD Card or changing time, date etc. wearing gloves. Just an idea: one could wear latex gloves as they fit pretty snug.