Upper bound for broadband radiofrequency field disruption of magnetic compass orientation in night-migratory songbirds

Authors: Leberecht B, Wong SY, Satish B, Döge S, Hindman J, Venkatraman L, Apte S, Haase K, Musielak I, Dautaj G, Solov'yov IA, Winklhofer M, Mouritsen H, Hore PJ

Year: 2023 Jul 11

Category: Ornithology, Physics

Journal: Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A

DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2301153120

URL: https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2301153120

Abstract

Overview

Night-migratory songbirds utilize a light-dependent magnetic compass, primarily mediated by the photochemical formation of radical pairs in cryptochrome proteins within their retinas.

Findings

  • Historically, it has been hypothesized that weak radiofrequency (RF) electromagnetic fields can interfere with this orientation ability.
  • Our study tested frequencies between 140-150 MHz and 235-245 MHz, revealing that these bands do not disrupt the magnetic orientation of Eurasian blackcaps (Sylvia atricapilla).
  • Further analysis suggests that the disruptive effect of RF fields on the flavin-containing radical-pair sensor is approximately frequency-independent up to 116 MHz. Beyond this, sensitivity to RF disorientation decreases significantly.

Conclusion

Considering previous observations at different frequencies (75 to 85 MHz), our results strengthen the evidence that the navigation of migratory birds operates via a radical pair mechanism, potentially highlighting a critical ecological risk from certain electromagnetic frequencies.

migratory birds magnetic compass radiofrequency electromagnetic fields radical pair mechanism cryptochrome proteins disorientation
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