Light could offer a novel solution for manipulating pest behaviour; however, while light deters rodents from artificial food patches9,13,25,27, previous studies have not explored if illumination supresses rodent movement (i.e. prey responses may vary across contexts). For example, feeding individuals may experience greater risk than moving individuals because animals can be vigilant while exploring36 but handling complex food items diverts a forager’s attention from approaching predators37–40. Additionally, male and female rats may not respond identically to risk. Female rats invest heavily in parental care and may respond more cautiously towards predation cues than promiscuous male rats41. Males may trade off exposure to risk for additional mating opportunities or better foraging prospects41, especially during the breeding season when they travel across large home ranges42–44.