The effect of yellow and blue light on magnetic compass orientation in European robins, Erithacus rubecula

To analyze the wavelength dependency of magnetic compass orientation, Europ ean robins were tested during spring migration under light of various wavel engths. Under 565-nm green light (control) the birds showed excellent orien tation in their migratory direction; a 120 degrees deflection of magnetic N orth resulted in a corresponding shift in the birds' directional tendencies , indicating the use of the magnetic compass. Under 443-nm blue light, the robins were likewise well oriented. Under 590-nm yellow, however, oriented behavior was no longer observed, although the activity was at the same leve l as under blue and green light. The spectral range where magnetic orientat ion is possible thus differs from the range of vision, the former showing p arallels to that of rhodopsin absorption. The interpretation of the abrupt change in behavior observed between 565 green to 590 yellow is unclear. The re is no simple relationship between magnetoreception and the: known color receptors of birds.