LONG RANGE NAVIGATION IN ANIMALS.
Abstract
Some of the hypotheses put forward in recent years to account for vertebrate navigation ability are examined theoretically and by experiments. Methods of interfering with the suggested external stimuli and the suggested sensory and information-processing systems are described, with special reference to hypotheses involving a use of the semicircular canals of the labyrinth as receptors for mechanical or electromagnetic guiding forces. Negative results were obtained in experiments with geomagnetic, inertial, and radio-wave guidance in pigeons. Preliminary attempts to eliminate bilaterally the sensors for vertical rotation in pigeons by ultrasound and high-energy proton irradiation suggest no adverse effect on initial orientation and homing success at distances less than 30 km; at greater distances no decisive results are yet available. A device for testing celestial navigation in small birds using a large prism on top of a Kramer cage is briefly described; and some data are given from orientation experiments with tortoises. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 15, 1968
- Accession Number
- AD0678065
Entities
People
- C. G. Edelstam
Organizations
- Stockholm University