Abstract
Given the inconsistent results of experiments testing the olfactory hypothesis of pigeon homing, we have undertaken a variety of experiments with pigeons from several lofts in Germany. In a series of detour experiments we found a consistent effect at one of 12 release sites. Results at the other sites showed great variability. A more direct test of the role of olfaction in homing involved application of odorous nasal pouches to pigeons’ beaks just prior to release. This usually resulted in increased scatter of vanishing bearings, but had only marginal effects on homing velocity. Some of the limitations in these experiments and possible sources of inconsistency are discussed.
Supported by the Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft.
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Hartwick, R., Kiepenheuer, J., Schmidt-Koenig, K. (1978). Further Experiments on the Olfactory Hypothesis of Pigeon Homing. In: Schmidt-Koenig, K., Keeton, W.T. (eds) Animal Migration, Navigation, and Homing. Proceedings in Life Sciences. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-11147-5_9
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-662-11147-5_9
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