Investigating the impact of weak geomagnetic fluctuations on pigeon races

Authors: Petr Jandačka, Hynek Burda, Jiří Ščučka

Year: 2022 Jan 28

Category: Neuroethology

Journal: J Comp Physiol A Neuroethol Sens Neural Behav Physiol

DOI: 10.1007/s00359-021-01534-x

URL: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35088124/

Abstract

Overview

The study focuses on the potential impact of weak geomagnetic fluctuations on the orientation and navigation of homing pigeons during races. The controversial topic of avian magnetic orientation serves as the foundation for this investigation.

Findings

  • Analysis of 289 pigeon races over 15 years.
  • Evaluation of homing speed relative to geomagnetic field disturbances.
  • Indications of slight negative correlations between geomagnetic fluctuations and homing times, suggesting disturbances in navigational efficiency linked to magnetoreception.

Conclusion

The findings contribute to the ongoing debate on avian magnetic orientation, highlighting potential influences of natural magnetic variations on pigeon racing outcomes. This has broader implications for understanding animal navigation mechanisms under environmental disturbances. Future studies could expand on these findings by incorporating additional environmental variables to better elucidate the complexities of pigeon navigation.

geomagnetic fluctuations pigeon races magnetic orientation navigational efficiency magnetoreception
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