Scientists Discover How Pigeons Navigate Using Built-In Magnetic Sensors
Photo: Nathan Dumlao / Unsplash
Researchers have identified iron-filled immune cells in pigeons' livers that function as natural magnetic compasses, helping the birds find their way home by sensing Earth's magnetic field. This breakthrough solves a longstanding mystery about animal navigation and reveals fascinating connections between immunity and environmental sensing that could inspire new technologies.
Researchers have identified iron-filled immune cells in pigeons’ livers that function as natural magnetic compasses, helping the birds find their way home by sensing Earth’s magnetic field. This breakthrough solves a longstanding mystery about animal navigation and reveals fascinating connections between immunity and environmental sensing that could inspire new technologies.