Home Science Compass orientation of a migratory bat species depends on sunset direction

Compass orientation of a migratory bat species depends on sunset direction

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Scientists combined a mirror experiment simulating a different direction of the setting sun and a new test procedure to measure orientation behavior in bats to understand the role of the sun’s position in the animals’ navigation system. The results demonstrate for the first time that a migratory mammal species uses the sunset direction to calibrate their compass system.