Magnetic compass orientation in the subterranean rodent Cryptomys hottentotus (Bathyergidae)
Burda, H.; Marhold, S.; Westenberger, T.; Wiltschko, R.; Wiltschko, W.
Experientia 46(5): 528-530
1990
ISSN/ISBN: 0014-4754 PMID: 2347407 Document Number: 357324
To test whether mole-rats Cryptomys hottentotus were able to use the magnetic field for orientation, laboratory experiments were conducted which were based on the animals' spontaneous tendency to build their nests at the same position in a circular arena. In the local geomagnetic field, the animals preferred the SE-sector. When magnetic north was turned by 120.degree. or by 180.degree., the mole-rats changed their nest position accordingly. This clearly shows that they can use the magnetic field for direction finding.