Magnetic compass, hierarchy of compass systems, magnetic map
The mechanism of the avian magnetic
compass (2012 – present)
In this project, we study how 1) oscillating magnetic fields (OMFs) with varying frequencies and amplitudes and 2) the spectral composition and intensity of light influence the magnetic orientation of birds in behavioural experiments, aiming to uncover the mechanisms underlying avian magnetic orientation.
The magnetic compass behaviour in migratory songbirds (2020 – present)
In this project, we continue our investigation of the avian magnetic compass, focusing on how changes in magnetic field parameters and light spectrum/intensity interact with the non-orientation behaviours of songbird species. These studies are conducted under lab-controlled conditions, utilising machine learning/neural network tools for analysis.
A hierarchy of compass systems
in migratory songbirds (2010 – present)
In this project, we investigate the interaction between compass systems in different songbird species and determine which compass holds a higher position in the hierarchy of compass systems.
Magnetic map in songbird migrants (2008 – present)
Every year, millions of birds undertake an incredible journey from their breeding grounds to wintering sites. Most small passerine birds migrate alone at night. How do naïve songbirds manage to reach locations hundreds or even thousands of kilometres away from where they were born without a fully developed navigation system? How does their navigation system develop and update throughout the journey, and what are the components of their navigational map? These are the key questions this project seeks to answer.
magbbb.com 