Kritika Handa

⁠How Do Birds Know Where To Migrate?

Many birds use the sun, stars, and the position of the sun during the day and the constellations at night to orient themselves. This method, known as celestial navigation.

Celestial Cues

Young birds often learn migratory routes from older, experienced birds through group travel. This cultural transmission ensures that successful migratory paths are passed down through generations.

Social Behaviour

Some bird species use their sense of smell to help navigate during migration. They can detect specific scents associated with their breeding or wintering grounds.

Olfactory Cues

Changes in weather, temperature, and daylight hours signal birds that it is time to migrate. These environmental cues help birds determine the optimal times for departure and arrival.

Environmental Factors

Birds rely on familiar physical landmarks such as mountains, rivers, and coastlines to navigate. These visual cues help them stay on course.

Topography

Birds possess magnetoreception, the ability to sense the Earth's magnetic field. This internal compass helps them navigate across long distances.

Earth's Magnetic Field