Exploring the effect of the Moon cycle on pigeon homing

This study explores the intriguing potential influence of the Moon's phases on the homing orientation of pigeons. Leveraging a comprehensive dataset of 289 pigeon racing records, covering distances from 333 to 550 km and averaging 2186 pigeons per race, we analyzed the natural homing behavior of pigeons, where variability in speed was notably impacted by weather conditions. This non-experimental approach offers valuable insights into a longstanding question in avian navigation. By employing nonlinear regression analysis of homing speed in relation to the Moon's phase, we identified a potential cyclical pattern, suggesting a lunar influence. We propose three hypotheses to explain this relationship: the first posits that pigeons may synchronize their behavior with visual sensing the lunar cycle; the second examines the role of the Moon’s gravitational effect on pigeon navigation; and the third considers how tidal forces in the Earth’s liquid core might influence geomagnetic fields, thereby affecting orientation. This study opens the door to a deeper understanding of the Moon’s role in avian navigation and the broader implications for animal behavior studies.