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A global screen for magnetically induced neuronal activity in the pigeon brain

Gregory C Nordmann1,2,3, Spencer D Balay1,3, Thamari N Kapuruge1,4

  • 1Department of Biology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University (LMU) Munich, Planegg-Martinsried, Germany.

Science (New York, N.Y.)
|November 20, 2025
PubMed
Summary

Scientists discovered how pigeons sense magnetic fields using their inner ear. Specialized cells in the semicircular canals detect magnetic stimuli, activating a brain circuit for navigation.

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Action Potentials01:41

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Overview
Action Potential01:14

Action Potential

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Cell Body
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