This is how a bird might see magnetic fields. (Theoretical and Computational Biophysics/UofI)
Mood Link (bird is the word)
Birds Can See Earth’s Magnetic Fields
A newly discovered protein in bird’s eyes allows them to them “see” Earth’s magnetic fields. These findings come courtesy of two new papers – one studying robins, the other zebra finches.
The eye protein is called Cry4, and it’s part of a class of proteins called cryptochromes – photoreceptors sensitive to blue light, found in both plants and animals. These proteins play a role in regulating circadian rhythms.
There’s also been evidence in recent years that, in birds, the cryptochromes in their eyes are responsible for their ability to orient themselves by detecting magnetic fields, a sense called magnetoreception.
We know that birds can only sense magnetic fields if certain wavelengths of light are available – specifically, studies have shown that avian magnetoreception seems dependent on blue light.
This seems to confirm that the mechanism is a visual one, based in the cryptochromes, which may be able to detect the fields because of quantum coherence.
Studies were launched to confirm this information and the study results were very encouraging. What does a bird actually see? Well, we can’t ever know what the world looks like through another species’ eyes, but we can take a very strong guess.
Wow.
Nice bit of science blogging. Some argue that it's all just a mindless accident without an efficient cause. I'd say evidence points otherwise.
I had heard decades ago that their ability to navigate was due to small iron-rich particles in their ears. That was never explained well enough for me. Having the navigation be part of eyesight makes much more sense.
We know that birds can only sense magnetic fields if certain wavelengths of light are available
Wonder if that applies to all birds? I've seen sand hill cranes migrating at night. Can't recall seeing them doing it when it is overcast.
Some birds, at least, use stellar navigation at night.
This world continues to amaze me.
Thank You Dr. LL! I did not know that. "Bird is the word", indeed.
Very interesting post. I thought they had figured that was part of how migrating birds did it; but I guess they have proof now.
Wonder how they are being affected if the magnetic poles have begun their overdue shift?
Have a blessed weekend!
Very interesting…
I've heard that there are things that can alter migratory patterns. I'm not sure precisely what they are – maybe building a city or draining a swamp where ducks used to stop? This particular explanation adds one intriguing piece of the puzzle.
Comments are closed.