How pigeons exploit magnetic fields for navigation

A new study suggests pigeons may use liver macrophages linked to nerves to sense magnetic fields and home when the sun is hidden.

Pigeons whose macrophages were removed struggled to navigate in cloudy conditions, while control birds returned successfully.

The effect disappeared in sunlight, indicating magnetic sensing likely works alongside solar cues rather than replacing them.

Outside experts urged caution and noted an earlier Science study pointing to a forebrain-based mechanism, so multiple navigation systems may be involved.