How do homing pigeons identify directions?

Pigeons' ability to identify directions mainly depends on the following factors:

1. The Earth’s magnetic field: Homing pigeons have the ability to sense the Earth’s magnetic field, which is considered an important reference for their navigation. Biomagnetoreceptors inside pigeons sense the direction and strength of the Earth's magnetic field, helping them determine their orientation.

2. Visual memory: Pigeons form a visual memory of their return point by observing and memorizing landmarks, terrain features, etc. They can use these memories, as well as the camouflage instincts of their nests and territories, to determine the direction of their flight.

3. Sun and wind direction: Homing pigeons can use the position of the sun and wind direction to assist navigation. They observe the position and movement of the sun, such as determining the east-west direction based on the sun's position. Wind direction affects the resistance and speed of flight, and pigeons may adjust their flight path according to the wind direction.

4. Geographical features and smell: Homing pigeons also identify directions based on geographical features, such as rivers, mountains, lakes, etc. In addition, they have good odor memory and can identify the odors along the way home and guide their return home based on changes in odors.

Using a combination of these factors, homing pigeons can orient themselves over longer distances and find their way home. However, there are still many unsolved mysteries about the specific navigation mechanism. Scientists' research on homing pigeon navigation is still ongoing, and our understanding of the details is still limited.

animal tags： dove