Effects of Artificial Light at Night (ALAN) on European Hedgehog Activity at Supplementary Feeding Stations

Allbwn ymchwil: Cyfraniad at gyfnodolynErthygladolygiad gan gymheiriaid

Fersiynau electronig

Dangosydd eitem ddigidol (DOI)

  • Domhnall Finch
    University of Sussex
  • Bethany Smith
    Mammal Society
  • Charlotte Marshall
    Mammal Society
  • Frazer Coomber
    University of SussexMammal Society
  • Laura Kubasiewicz
    Mammal Society
  • Max Anderson
    University of Sussex
  • Patrick Wright
    University of Sussex
  • Fiona Mathews
    University of SussexMammal Society
Artificial light at night (ALAN) can have negative consequences for a wide range of taxa. However, the effects on nocturnal mammals other than bats are poorly understood. A citizen science camera trapping experiment was therefore used to assess the effect of ALAN on the activity of European hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) at supplementary feeding stations in UK gardens. A crossover design was implemented at 33 gardens with two treatments—artificial light and darkness—each of which lasted for one week. The order of treatment depended on the existing lighting regime at the feeding station: dark treatments were applied first at dark feeding stations, whereas light treatments were used first where the station was already illuminated. Although temporal changes in activity patterns in response to the treatments were noted in some individuals, the direction of the effects was not consistent. Similarly, there was no overall impact of ALAN on the presence or feeding activities of hedgehogs in gardens where supplementary feeding stations were present. These findings are somewhat reassuring insofar as they demonstrate no net negative effect on a species thought to be in decline, in scenarios where the animals are already habituated to supplementary feeding. However, further research is needed to examine long-term effects and the effects of lighting on hedgehog prey, reproductive success and predation risk.
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Dynodwyr Gwrthrych Digidol (DOIs)
StatwsCyhoeddwyd - 28 Ebr 2020
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