Source: USA Today
During total solar eclipses, animals exhibit unusual behaviors such as gathering to protect young, mating unexpectedly, or exhibiting confusion. Scientists, intrigued by these responses, are planning extensive observations during the April 2024 eclipse in the U.S. Previous studies during the 2017 eclipse showed varied reactions: gorillas marched indoors, flamingos clustered protectively, and giraffes ran in their enclosures.
Surprisingly, some animals, like bears, showed little reaction. Researchers also noted changes in bird behavior, with daytime soaring birds heading to roost and insect-foraging birds leaving the sky. Scientists aim to expand these studies, observing animal reactions at multiple zoos and using radar to track bird movements during eclipses. These findings shed light on how animals perceive and respond to sudden darkness, which differs from humans’ planned reactions.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2024/03/03/april-2024-total-solar-eclipse-will-confuse-animals/72681540007/