science

Pigeons' Navigation Linked to Iron-Filled Immune Cells in Their Liver

31 Mayıs 2026Science Daily

Scientists have discovered that pigeons possess a unique navigation system involving iron-filled immune cells in their liver, which may function as tiny magnetic sensors. When deprived of these cells, pigeons had difficulty navigating home in cloudy conditions, suggesting they depend on the Earth's magnetic field fo…
This finding not only addresses a long-standing question about animal navigation but also highlights a surprising link between immune function and environmental sensing.
For decades, scientists have been puzzled by how certain animals, including pigeons, navigate across vast distances with remarkable accuracy. Previous theories have suggested various sensory modalities, but the role of the liver and its immune cells introduces a novel perspective that could unify disparate theories…
This discovery sheds light on the intricate biological mechanisms that underlie animal navigation, particularly in species like pigeons that have long fascinated researchers. The interplay between immunity and navigation suggests that evolution may have favored traits that enhance survival in challenging environments.

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This article is based on research findings and should not be construed as definitive conclusions without further studies.