Photo: us.cnn.com
Eclipse Tricks Birds into Dawn Chorus: A Study of Species' Reactions
The total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, in North America, compelled some bird species to sing as if dawn had arrived, resetting their circadian rhythm temporarily.
- During the total solar eclipse, which occurred on April 8, 2024, 29 bird species were observed singing as if it were morning, indicating a reset in their circadian rhythm.
- The solar eclipse created total darkness along a path stretching from Mazatlán, Mexico, to St. Johns in Newfoundland, Canada, impacting the behavior of birds in these regions.
- Research led by Indiana University Bloomington in ethology showed that the eclipses effect on birds demonstrated the influence of environmental changes on biological clocks across various species.
Why It Matters
This study highlights how extreme natural events like a solar eclipse can disrupt the normal behaviors of wildlife, enhancing our understanding of circadian rhythm and its adaptability in different species. Such insights are crucial for conservation efforts and understanding ecosystem dynamics.