Two Direction Experiments with Homing Pigeons and Their Bearing on the Problem of Goal Orientation

In seven cases birds from two different lofts have been released at intermediate points. In two cases (Giessen; rectangle release) the birds showed clearcut orientation to the two goals. The evidence comes from the initial heading directions as observable by field glasses from the release points; from achieved homing; and in the case of the Giessen releases, from birds reported on their way. In four other cases (Piney Mt., Dugger Mt.; Lick Stone; Hillsboro) there was differential behavior of the members of either colony; however, without obvious orientation toward both goals. In one case (Ansonville) the behavior of all birds at the release was equally undecided; vanishing directions could not be differentiated; homing success was achieved only by those pigeons whose home was situated N. E. (Durham). In the case of the Giessen, Dugger Mt., and Lick Stone releases, the two colonies were of consanguineous origin. In the rest of the releases the stocks were of different breed. The cases in which only ambiguous or no true goal orientation at all can be recognized require a special explanation. It is thought that regional differences may exist in the physical substrate which provides orientation clues. Regional differences of this sort may be connected with, or represent another aspect of the directional differences in homing.