Researchers are gearing up to observe how animals at the Fort Worth Zoo in Texas react to the upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8. Previous studies have shown that animals exhibit unusual behaviors during such celestial events. In 2017, at a South Carolina zoo, researchers noted surprising actions among various species.
Galapagos tortoises, typically inactive, engaged in breeding activities during the peak of the eclipse. Siamangs, a type of gibbon, sang unfamiliar tunes, while some male giraffes displayed signs of anxiety by galloping. Flamingos were observed huddling around their young.
Experts suggest that many animals respond to eclipses as if it were an early dusk. Scientists plan to replicate these observations in Texas to identify potential patterns in animal behavior during eclipses.
Several zoos along the eclipse's path, including those in Little Rock, Arkansas; Toledo, Ohio; and Indianapolis, are inviting visitors to participate in tracking animal behaviors.
Researchers emphasize the uniqueness of each eclipse event, with this year's eclipse following a different path and occurring in a different season compared to the 2017 event. This variation offers new opportunities for studying animal habits.
Studies have shown that honeybees alter their foraging patterns during eclipses, with some colonies behaving as they would at night. Bees rely on polarized light from the sun for navigation, causing a conflict between their internal rhythms and external environment during an eclipse.
Animal researcher Nate Bickford noted that eclipses simulate fast-moving storms, prompting many animals to seek shelter. Bald eagles and feral horses were observed changing their movements during the 2017 eclipse, likely in response to darkening skies.
Researchers are also curious about the impact of eclipses on bird migration. Songbirds typically migrate at night, raising questions about whether they may mistake eclipse-induced darkness for nighttime and initiate migration.
Indoor pets, such as dogs and cats, may react to eclipses based on their owners' behaviors and the changes in the environment. Pets often pay close attention to their owners and may mirror their reactions to celestial events.
As scientists gear up for the upcoming eclipse, they aim to gather valuable data on how animals respond to these rare astronomical occurrences.
