Artificial light at night (ALAN) is increasingly becoming recognized as an influential pollutant, impacting the fitness of numerous species. However, the effects on the behavior of many mammalian carnivores from ALAN remain unclear. The San Joaquin kit fox (Vulpes macrotis mutica; SJFK) is a small carnivorous mammal that inhabits the San Joaquin Valley of Central California. Unfortunately, this subspecies of kit fox is currently listed as endangered. Despite urbanization being one of the causes of habitat loss, the urban populations of this endangered species have acclimated well to their surroundings. A fundamental characteristic of the urban environment is the presence of ALAN, which may influence SJKF behavior. This study aims to determine how the SJKF behaviorally responds to the presence of ALAN in urban environments. To achieve this goal, we will determine if SJKF visits to scent stations differ in the presence and absence of ALAN in a Before-After-Control-Impact study design in both urban and non-urban environments. This study can contribute to understanding how small carnivores respond to light pollution and will aid SJKF conservation efforts, including detecting movement patterns and habitat preferences concerning light pollution and the potential for "wildlife-friendly" lighting practices.

K. Miguel Estenssoro is a California State University, Bakersfield, graduate student pursuing a Master’s degree in Biology. Their research focuses on the effects of artificial light on nocturnal wildlife, particularly the San Joaquin kit fox, aiming to improve conservation efforts in urban environments. With experience in both fieldwork and data analysis, they are dedicated to finding innovative solutions to human-wildlife conflicts through research and community engagement.