Avian Navigation: Pigeon Homing as a Paradigm

Observation Data Used to Investigate Pigeon Homing.- Basic Features of Pigeon Homing.- Potential Input Signals Exploitable for Home-Finding.- The Role of the Sun.- The Role of the Geomagnetic Field.- The Role of the Chemical Atmosphere.- The Role of the Visual Landscape.- The Neural Bases of Pigeon Homing.- Homing in Other Birds.- Research History: Blind Alleys and an Unexpected Passage.- Overall Synthesis and Perspective.

Dr. Hans G. Wallraff was scientist at the Max Planck Institute for Behavioural Physiology who investigated navigation and orientation of birds over almost 50 years.

From the reviews:



"With this book, Wallraff carefully reviews, in great detail, the basic categories of avian navigation signals (e.g., solar compass, geomagnetic field, visual landscape). ... Most importantly, the author outlines directions for research advances in the future, especially with the study of sensory input (neural mechanisms). This technical monograph is an excellent review of scientific progress toward an understanding of avian navigation. Summing Up: Recommended. Upper-level graduates through faculty/researchers." (C. Leck, CHOICE, Vol. 42 (11), July, 2005)

"This book tells the fascinating story of the search for the homing mechanism in pigeons ... . Intellectual honesty is a major characteristics of Wallraff, and I am sure that he would never have omitted a contribution ... . The honesty of the author is also shown by the rich illustrations. ... an important source of information for students active in the field of research." (Ethology, Ecology & Evolution, Vol. 17 (1), 2005)

"There is no better intellect in this complex and combative field than Wallraff. ... There is no doubt that the book serves a useful purpose as a current benchmark statement of the generally prevailing view of pigeon navigation mechanisms. It will have a worthy place on research and higher-study reading lists, and in learned libraries." (Tim Guilford, IBIS, Vol. 148, 2006)