To the Ends of the Earth: Ireland's Place in Bird Migration

Migration is a way of life for most birds found in Ireland, derived from two hemispheres. Modern tracking results reveal journeys once thought impossible, such as sustained flight for days at a time. Birds use a range of global phenomena, including patterns of polarized light visible in the sky, to navigate. This book is a must for anyone who has ever wondered how and why these creatures make such gruelling journeys.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 24 September 2018
Publisher: The Collins Press

Migration is an integral part of the lives of most birds found in Ireland. Our country, positioned with its back towards the Old World and its face towards the New World, attracts a diverse range of bird species from both hemispheres. These birds travel from far and wide, arriving on our shores to breed, rest, or spend the winter. For centuries, the mystery of how these visitors reached our shores has puzzled scientists and enthusiasts alike.

How do birds navigate such vast distances and return to the same nesting site year after year? Modern tracking technologies have shed light on their remarkable journeys, revealing previously thought impossible feats, such as sustained flights for days on end. However, their homing ability is truly awe-inspiring. Most young birds embark on solo expeditions to distant winter quarters, never having seen them before.

The evidence for bird navigation is carefully compiled and presented in this book, offering a clear and coherent understanding of the complex ways in which birds navigate, prepare for their journeys, and make decisions along the way. It dispels misconceptions and sheds light on the remarkable abilities of these seemingly fragile creatures.

Birds possess a remarkable array of senses that far surpass our own. They do not solely rely on the sun and stars for guidance but also utilize something we cannot perceive: the Earth's magnetic field. By integrating a range of global phenomena, including patterns of polarized light visible to their specially tuned vision in the sky, birds are able to navigate with incredible precision.

This captivating book is a must-read for anyone who has ever wondered how and why these seemingly delicate creatures undertake such arduous journeys. It provides a deep insight into the world of bird navigation, offering a wealth of information and captivating stories that will captivate readers of all ages. Whether you are a bird enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply someone curious about the wonders of the natural world, this book will enrich your understanding and appreciation of these remarkable creatures.

Weight: 720g
Dimension: 235 x 164 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781848893528