Researchers have found that juvenile loggerhead sea turtles exhibit distinct behavior when sensing food or potential sources in their environment. This unique dance-like movement involves tilting their head, opening their mouth, and flapping their front flippers. Scientists used this behavior as a test subject to determine if the turtles could identify specific magnetic field signatures associated with past feeding locations. The results indicate that loggerhead sea turtles can learn and recall these magnetic signature patterns, effectively creating a mental map similar to GPS navigation. This remarkable ability aids in the turtles’ ability to locate food sources and navigate their environment.
Source: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/sea-turtle-dance-reveals-a-hidden-magnetic-ability