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A compass is a navigational tool that helps people find their direction using the earth's magnetic field. It contains a magnet that aligns itself with the earth's north pole to indicate the direction.

What scientists increasingly understand is that bird navigation is far more complex than simply following familiar landmarks.

"Simulation explores how insects glean compass direction from skylight." ScienceDaily. www.sciencedaily.com / releases / 2019 / 07 / 190718140438.htm (accessed August 14, 2026).