I've got 6 out on one ranch just to learn what's there. Mostly Cabelas with an odd Stealth or Browning thrown in. They all seem to have good battery life (10K+ pics). Most are placed about 6' above the ground on trees. I haven't had any bear problems either and have bears all over the ranch. I don't know as there's much I could do to prevent a bear from getting a camera (other than scent control) since they seem to climb pretty easily.