The orientation of pigeons as affected by the learning of landmarks and by the distance of displacement

Abstract

Summary 1. The same thirty pigeons of wide experience were used throughout the tests. 2. Repeated releases at one point showed that landmarks were learned sufficiently well to orientate by them after more than two but less than six releases. 3. The area of previously known landmarks extended up to 18 miles, at least in one direction. 4. Released 23–35 miles from home the birds showed no orientation, apparently not knowing the landmarks nor being able to navigate. 5. Released 50–79 miles, and further, orientation towards home was clearly shown. 6. These findings are in accord with navigation by a “grid”, involving comparison of factors varying quantitatively across the earth's surface. 7. There were no indications of directional tendencies or immediate homeward orientation.