How Birds (and Other Animals) Migrate Successfully Educational Resources K12 Learning, Life Science, Science Lesson Plans, Activities, Experiments, Homeschool Help

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio:

This is called a murmuration of starlings. As these birds migrate, they whirl in the sky. The way it looks is not the only amazing thing about it!

The migratory pattern of birds (and other animals) is fascinating!

Explore how birds and some other animals have a magnetic sense, which allows them to migrate successfully!

Get started with another video to learn how birds use magnetic fields to find their way.

Learn more about the magnetic sense of birds and other animals as you read the following resources.

Then, answer these questions.

What is magnetoreception?
How are birds able to see magnetic fields?
What tiny particles are located in birds and other animals that help with their sense of direction?
How is the earth like a magnet?

If you are unsure, check the answers below.

If you think you've got it, then move on to the Got It? section to experiment with magnetism.

Supplies for the Make Your Own Compass Project

Suggested Reading

How Pigeons and Other Animals Sense Magnetic Fields by Ryan Nagelhout
Earth is Like a Giant Magnet and Other Freaky Facts About Planets, Oceans, and Volcanoes by Barbara Seuling
The Journey: Stories of Migration by Cynthia Rylant
Amazing Animal Migrations by Be Naturally Curious
Incredible Journeys: Amazing Animal Migrations by Animal Planet and Dwight Holing