Role:
PhD Researcher in Sensory and Behavioural Ecology
Current Research:
My PhD is titled: The Influence of Nighttime Lighting on Predator-Prey Dynamics and the Landscape of Fear.
I am investigating how artificial light at night (ALAN) impacts predator-prey interactions and animal behaviour within the context of the landscape of fear. My research combines low-light visual modelling, reverse-GPS predator-prey tracking, and experimental fieldwork to study the behavioural mechanisms underlying ALAN’s effects, focusing on endangered shorebirds, their predators, and their prey. This work aims to develop conservation strategies addressing ALAN’s impacts on biodiversity and trophic dynamics. I work under the supervision of Dr Jolyon Troscianko (Exeter), Prof Laura Kelley (Exeter), Dr Tom Bodey (Aberdeen) and Dr Malcolm Burgess (RSPB).
Prior Research:
My MSc Evolutionary and Behavioural Ecology research project was titled: The Effects of Artificial Light at Night on Moth Behaviour. I explored how ALAN influences the activity and behaviour of moths, focusing on its implications for nocturnal pollination and ecosystem function.
My BSc Zoology research project was titled: The Effects of the Urban Environment on Bat Activity and Diversity. This project examined how urban landscapes affect bat populations, showing significant behavioural changes and species diversity shifts.
Interests:
My primary interest lies in the interface of behavioural ecology and conservation biology, particularly the effects of human-induced environmental changes on animal behaviour. I also work part-time as an ecologist for Cornwall Wildlife Trust and Cornwall Council, where I review planning and development applications and hold a CL10a dormouse licence. In line with the Environment Act 2021, my work here focuses on minimising the impacts of human-induced environmental change on both local and nationally important wildlife.
Contact Info:
Email: kgc205@exeter.ac.uk
Bluesky: @katcrenol.bsky.social
LinkedIn: Katrina Crenol
