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Quantum Compass Found in Pigeon Livers
29 May
Summary
- Pigeons may navigate using iron-rich immune cells in their livers.
- These cells exhibit quantum magnetic properties for direction.
- Birds lacking these cells got lost in overcast conditions.
New research suggests that pigeons possess an extraordinary internal compass located within their livers. Scientists discovered that iron-rich immune cells in this organ exhibit unique quantum magnetic properties.
These properties allow the birds to detect and utilize Earth's magnetic field for directional guidance, particularly when other navigation methods are obscured. Experiments conducted by researchers demonstrated that pigeons whose liver cells were depleted of iron struggled to find their way during overcast conditions, becoming lost.
This finding offers a new explanation for pigeons' remarkable navigational abilities, especially in challenging weather. The study, published recently, proposes that these specialized immune cells transmit magnetic field information to the bird's brain via nerve connections.
