Pigeon Navigation Linked to Liver Cells as Magnetic Sensors

Researchers have identified a novel navigation mechanism in pigeons, involving iron-rich immune cells within their livers. These cells, known as macrophages, are believed to function as magnetic sensors, allowing pigeons to perceive Earth's magnetic field, especially when visual navigation is impaired. This discovery offers a potential explanation for a long-standing enigma in animal navigation and highlights an unexpected connection between immune function and environmental perception.