Ringtails (Bassariscus astutus) are hypothesized to be in a long-term population decline. Mitigating this hypothesized decline has been infeasible to date given the deficiency of data on ringtails. To update critically needed information, we are compiling existing observation and community science data while deploying trail cameras, to develop an updated map of ringtail distribution in California. Additionally, there is limited genetic research available and no markers suitable for low-quality sample types typical with non-invasive methods. We aim to fill this knowledge gap by developing genomic markers, a vital first for this species. 

Kristyn Schulte is an adjunct professor in the Department of Biological Sciences at Sacramento City College. Like her beloved ringtails, she too is a California native, graduating from Sacramento State with her BS in 2018 and MS in 2023. When not sciencing, she is raising two wild animals, her children Asa and Alice, with her loving and supportive husband, Robert. She has stage fright, so be nice to her.