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rallenpx t1_itnikl6 wrote

Holy crap! This could explain the theory that birds evolved to sense electromagnetism in their beaks! If they can find the food source easier it passes to the next generation.

Bonus side effect; it's doubles as a migrational GPS tool.

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Mackana t1_itq0i1t wrote

Didn't they recently discover that birds ability to sense magnetic fields are connected to their eyes? Or have I dreamt this up

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Burnbrook t1_itqwcah wrote

I'm curious if this adaptation in birds came from the electromagnetic sensory receptors shared by other archosaurs (I.e. crocodilians) or was convergently adapted utilizing other pathways (visual/tactile). Either way, the atmospheric impact of insects is a fascinating subject. Shame we are waging unmitigated war on them.

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t9b t1_ittre2u wrote

Not only birds. We also have the same physical feature - I think it’s a concentration of iron or something, but we cannot use it anymore.

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