Introduction: The Amazing Pelican Migration

Every year, pelicans embark on a journey that is nothing short of amazing. Their migration can cover thousands of miles, from breeding grounds to wintering areas. But how do they manage to navigate such distances? It turns out that pelicans use a variety of tools and strategies to navigate their way across vast distances.

The Navigation Tools of Pelicans

One of the most remarkable tools that pelicans have at their disposal is the ability to detect the Earth’s magnetic field. This allows them to orient themselves and stay on the correct course during their journey. Pelicans also use the position of the sun and stars to navigate, and they have an acute sense of smell that helps them locate familiar landmarks such as rivers and coastlines.

Magnetic Field Detection in Pelicans

Pelicans are just one of many species of birds that have been found to have the ability to detect the Earth’s magnetic field. This remarkable skill is believed to be due to the presence of tiny particles of iron in their beaks. These particles are thought to be magnetite, which is a mineral that is sensitive to magnetic fields. By using this sense, pelicans can correct for drift caused by wind or other factors and stay on course during migration.