Swans have an amazing ability to find their way back to their home territory, even after traveling thousands of miles. Scientists believe that swans use a variety of cues to help them navigate, including the sun, the stars, and the Earth's magnetic field.
Using the sun: Swans can use the sun's position in the sky to help them determine their direction of travel. They know that the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, so they can use this information to help them stay on course.
Using the stars: Swans can also use the stars to help them navigate. They know that certain stars are always visible in the night sky, and they can use these stars to help them determine their location.
Using the Earth's magnetic field: Swans can also use the Earth's magnetic field to help them navigate. They have a small organ in their body called a magnetite compass, which allows them to sense the Earth's magnetic field. This information can help them to determine which direction they are facing.
By using a combination of these cues, swans are able to find their way back to their home territory, even after traveling thousands of miles.