Nature´s GPS: the avian magnetic sensel
Each year, billions of birds embark on impressive journeys, thereby covering thousands of kilometres with a precision unobtainable until the emergence of GPS satellites.
How they find their way has fascinated researchers and laymen alike for centuries. Since about 50 years it has been shown that, besides various natural cues such as stars, sun, olfaction etc, migratory birds can use the Earth´s magnetic field as an orientational cue on their journeys between breeding and wintering grounds.
This talk aims to give a comprehensive overview on the phenomenon of avian magnetoreception ranging from behavioural, neurobiological, molecular biological and quantum chemical evidence.