The Effect of Directional Experience on Initial Orientation in Pigeons

Abstract

IN a review article (Wallaff 1967) I reported that the individual experience gained from previous homing flights is one of the various factors determining the initial bearings of displaced pigeons. This conclusion was based both on earlier published results (Wallraff 1959a, Graue 1965) and on further findings of which some examples were shown. I emphasized that, at least in birds with limited experience, even a single flight can influence the initial direction in a following flight, depending on the relation between the two homeward directions. I also emphasized that the magnitude of the deflection varies within a very wide range. Recently Alexander and Keeton (1972) reported that they failed to find effects of directional training on initial orientation in pigeons of their loft in Ithaca, New York. As they also doubted the conclusiveness of the data I had thus far presented, I feel bound to discuss the matter again and to publish all the data I have that may be especially relevant to deciding the question.