Birds migrate over long distances using a variety of impressive methods, including ¹ ²:
- Navigation: Birds can determine direction using the sun, stars, and earth's magnetic field, as well as landmarks and even sense of smell.
- Preferred pathways: Many birds, especially waterfowl and cranes, follow established migration routes that often relate to crucial stopover locations for food.
- Broad fronts: Smaller birds frequently migrate in wide fronts that cover extensive parts of the landscape.
- Weather and food: Many birds adjust their migration routes according to seasonal trends in weather and food availability.
- Fat reserves: Many birds build up fat reserves before migrating, which provide energy for their journey.
- Wind and thermals: Many birds use wind and thermals to assist their migration, with some species even using mountain waves and lee waves.
