Migrations: Can Birds 'See' Magnetic Fields?
An adaptation could let birds visualize true north.
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Show Notes
Some migratory songbirds such as European Robins have special light-sensitive proteins called cryptochromes in their eyes. New research suggests how the cryptochromes could alter their behavior in the presence of magnetic fields, giving birds a visual cue for north and south. Other birds can navigate with the help of a mineral called magnetite in their beaks.
More info and transcript at BirdNote.org.
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