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Newt Orientation by Sun-compass

Abstract

SALAMANDERS migrate long distances to breeding sites1, and apparently possess an accurate guidance mechanism2,3. The homing of blinded Taricha after being displaced downstream suggests that they rely on olfactory cues4. The ability of the normal animal to use vision in orientation, however, has received little attention. Three species of frogs and toads use a sun-compass5–7, and the toad, Bufo woodhousei fowleri, can learn a direction of escape relative to a light cue8.

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References

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LANDRETH, H., FERGUSON, D. Newt Orientation by Sun-compass. Nature 215, 516–518 (1967). https://doi.org/10.1038/215516a0

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