Homing success in wintering sparrows

Abstract

The ability of birds to return "home" after displacement is generallywell known but poorly understood because of the multiplicity of variablesthat affect homing performance. These variables can include age andprevious experience of the bird, as well as the timing and distance of thedisplacement. The phenomenon of homing is also difficult to interpretbecause, like other behaviors, its performance depends upon both motivationand ability. A deficiency in either component will preclude expressionof the behavior.

Citation

Ralph, C. John; Mewaldt, L. Richard. 1976. Homing success in wintering sparrows. The Auk 93(1):1-14