How birds migrate
Great flocks of birds gathering for their winter migration are a common sight each autumn. How they find their way to and from their destination is one of nature's greatest wonders. Migration is a vital part of many birds' survival, because it enables them to make use of their powers of flight to expolit various habitats during the different seasons.
Why and when?
The availability of food, the search for suitable nest sites, and the seasonal changes in climate are the main reasons why birds migrate. During autumn, the days become shorter and colder, resulting in plant growth slowing down. This meant that food supplies also slowed down. The birds would then head south for the winter.
The availability of food, the search for suitable nest sites, and the seasonal changes in climate are the main reasons why birds migrate. During autumn, the days become shorter and colder, resulting in plant growth slowing down. This meant that food supplies also slowed down. The birds would then head south for the winter.
Finding the way
Many birds migrate in a group or flock. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that the older and more experienced birds can lead the flock. In this way, the knowledge of the route is passed on from generation to generation. However, some birds migrate alone as an individual. This suggests that migrating birds must have an instinct that guides them in the correct direction. For hundreds of years, humans have used the sun and stars in navigation. Birds could use this to find the right direction to fly in. Birds may also use the earth's magnetic field to help them find the correct direction. It seems like they could have some sort of in-built compass. These birds can also remember the previous routes that they have taken and also recognise familiar landmarks.
Many birds migrate in a group or flock. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that the older and more experienced birds can lead the flock. In this way, the knowledge of the route is passed on from generation to generation. However, some birds migrate alone as an individual. This suggests that migrating birds must have an instinct that guides them in the correct direction. For hundreds of years, humans have used the sun and stars in navigation. Birds could use this to find the right direction to fly in. Birds may also use the earth's magnetic field to help them find the correct direction. It seems like they could have some sort of in-built compass. These birds can also remember the previous routes that they have taken and also recognise familiar landmarks.
