Map the clip lifecycle before choosing a capacity
Document what triggers a recording, its maximum and typical length, where it lands first, when it is overwritten or deleted, and how an original is exported. Birdfy currently documents cloud Moment retention plus a separate Collection. Birdbuddy currently says its feeders have no local storage. Those are system-specific examples, not rules for the category.
Treat microSD support as six separate questions
Confirm card format, speed class, supported capacity, whether a card is included, overwrite behavior, and safe physical access. Then verify whether recording continues without internet and whether playback requires the camera to reconnect. Do not insert or remove storage while equipment is powered unless the exact instructions permit it, and do not expose open electronics to rain.
Read cloud retention and Collection rules separately
A rolling event history and a user-saved Collection may have different limits and deletion rules. Birdfy currently documents both, including separate membership effects. Record the current terms shown for your account, device eligibility, and region; do not assume a plan name or limit will remain unchanged for the life of the feeder.
Export the footage that matters
Test one photo and video download before relying on the system. Birdbuddy documents downloads from its Home feed, Collection, and Live feature. Keep wanted files outside the app, preserve their dates when possible, and avoid recording neighboring property or unnecessary audio. Deleting an app copy may not establish how cloud backups or shared links are handled, so review current privacy controls.