Orientation of Migratory Restlessness in the White-Crowned Sparrow

Individuals of two migratory races of white-crowned sparrows (Zonotrichia leucophrys) caged under an open sky showed a pronounced orientation in their night restlessness during normal periods of migration for the species. In August and September 1958 most birds showed a southerly orientation at night; daytime activity was random to somewhat northerly. In April and May 1959 most birds showed a strong northerly orientation at night; daytime activity was random to somewhat southerly (1).