In just a few days, much of the United States will experience a solar eclipse. And while humans have been preparing for this long-awaited historical event for weeks, months, and even years, it is noteworthy that other natural creatures also experience solar eclipses in their own ways. Worth it.
Wild animals do not have clocks or calendars, so they rely on the sun to act as both a time indicator and a compass. Darker skies and cooler temperatures during the eclipse can cause wildlife to shift to nocturnal habits, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Birds are the most notable of the animals affected by solar eclipses. In a study conducted during the 2017 solar eclipse, scientists recorded nightjars flitting around during the eclipse, screeching owls, and disoriented black vultures that came to roost and took off minutes later when the sun returned.
Scientists have been observing how wild animals react to solar eclipses for centuries, dating back to the 13th century.
According to National Geographic, one of the first records of wildlife responding to a solar eclipse was recorded by the Italian monk Ristro d'Arezzo in 1239.
“All the animals and birds were frightened and the beast was easy to catch,” D'Arezzo wrote.
Almost 300 years later, in 1560, astronomer Christoph Clavius noticed how “birds fell from the sky to the ground in fear of the terrible darkness” during a solar eclipse, according to National Geographic.
More recently, according to National Geographic, in 2001, eclipse tracker Tola Grebe, who was studying solar eclipses in Zambia, noticed that when the sun was in the shadow of the moon, frogs started croaking and birds of prey appeared overhead. It was discovered that the aircraft stopped turning when
How will household pets react to a solar eclipse?
Domestic pets such as cats and dogs are unlikely to act out during Monday's solar eclipse, but they may become confused or slightly disoriented during the light change, especially if they are outdoors. There is a possibility.
For optimal safety, it's best to leave your pet indoors during the eclipse.
Helps record how wildlife reacts to solar eclipses near you
One way scientists are continuing to learn about how wildlife responds to solar eclipses is through citizen science projects through apps like iNaturalist and Eclipse Soundscapes.
The smartphone app iNaturalist allows the public to enter information such as photos, videos and audio of what they witnessed during the eclipse. Creating an iNaturalist account is free.
Eclipse Soundscape is operated by NASA and allows you to upload photos, videos, and audio of crickets during a solar eclipse.
Greta Cross is a trending topics reporter for the Springfield News-Leader. X and follow her on Instagram @gretacrossphoto.Have a story idea? Email her atgcross@gannett.com.
