JOURNAL ARTICLE

Pigeons sense Earth's magnetic field in an entirely new way: Specialized hair cells pick electric currents induced by magnetism.

  • Published In: Sciencemag.org, 2025. P. N.PAG 1 of 3

  • Database: Applied Science & Technology Source Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Stokstad, Erik 3 of 3

Abstract

The article discusses recent research suggesting that pigeons may navigate using Earth's magnetic field through electric currents in their inner ears, supporting a theory proposed by zoologist Camille Viguier in 1882. The study identifies specialized hair cells in the semicircular canals of pigeons' inner ears that could translate magnetic information into electrical impulses, which are then processed in the brain's vestibular nuclei and mesopallium. This research adds to the understanding of magnetoreception, a sensory ability observed in various animals, and opens avenues for further investigation into how different species might utilize similar mechanisms for navigation. [Extracted from the article]

Additional Information

  • Source:Sciencemag.org. 2025/11, pN.PAG
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:Science
  • Publication Date:2025
  • Accession Number:189530580
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