I just realized that I didn't answer your question about operating the camera. The panel you see on the side of the camera, when swung open is also the viewfinder. When taking a shot, I get the squirrel lined up in the crosshairs, at the same time I also get it lined up in the viewfinder and put the camera in record standby. Once I am satisfied with everything I reach up with my left hand and push the record button. This starts the tape rolling. I take the shot and then reach up and hit the record button again to stop the record function.
It takes a bit of getting use to, but it's second nature now.