Pressure-Triggered Wildlife Camera System

I need a compact camera setup that will wake, focus and record only when a mammal physically steps on, pushes or otherwise engages a trigger in the forest. Infra-red or PIR motion sensors are off-limits for this project; the activation must rely on a pressure plate, mechanical switch, break-beam (non-IR), magnetic reed, or any other creative physical trigger you can propose.

The goal is quiet, reliable wildlife observation: the animal steps on the plate, the camera silently powers up, captures HD video or high-resolution stills for a programmable interval, then returns to sleep to conserve battery. Everything has to survive extended outdoor use—humidity, rain and the occasional curious paw—while remaining as invisible as possible in a woodland setting.

What I already have:
• A few GoPro-style action cameras and spare Raspberry Pi boards
• Basic woodworking tools to build the housing

What I need from you:
• A complete triggering solution that does not rely on infra-red
• Wiring diagram or PCB layout, parts list with sources and estimated costs
• Microcontroller code (Arduino, Pi, or your preferred platform) that handles wake-up, record length, power management and optional SD card overwrite logic
• Guidance on weather-proofing the pressure plate or switch
• Clear instructions so I can assemble and test it myself in the field

Acceptance criteria:
1. The camera records within one second of plate activation and stops after the preset time.
2. No false triggers from wind or small debris when plate sensitivity is adjusted for 5–50 kg animals.
3. System runs at least two weeks on a portable battery pack without recharge.
4. All documentation is complete enough that a reasonably handy person can reproduce the build.

If you have experience in low-power embedded design, wildlife rigs or rugged enclosures, I’d love to see your ideas and past work.