Chapter 11 - Finding the way: orientation and navigation

Abstract

This chapter discusses the various cues that birds use to find their way on migration, namely information from landmarks, the sun, skylight polarisation patterns and the stars, and magnetic field lines and odour gradients. Experiments implicating the use of all these various cues are described. The role of learning in the use of these environmental cues is also discussed, as is the ability of birds to transfer from one type of cue to another and to calibrate different cues against one another. Pros and cons in the use of rhumbline and great circle routes are discussed, as is the evidence that birds possess a positional sense.