Disruptive effects of brief radiofrequency noise exposure on migratory bat navigation

Science 2026

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Authors: Oliver Lindecke, Will T. Schneider, Viesturs Vintulis, Nicole Jordan, Fyodor Cellarius, Lara C. Marggraf, Jaclyn Niehues, Valts Jaunzemis, Oskars Keišs, Richard A. Holland
DOI: 10.1126/science.adq4418
Cited by: 1
References: 45

Abstract

How anthropogenic electromagnetic noise can affect living systems is a poorly understood impact of an increasingly urbanized natural environment, especially when occurring in a sublethal manner. In this study, we investigated impacts of weak-broadband radiofrequency (RF) fields on animal behavior. We exposed migratory soprano pipistrelle bats ( Pipistrellus pygmaeus ) to 0.01- to 300-megahertz RF fields and then tested their orientation later in the night. Whereas control bats oriented normally, bats exposed to RF noise exhibited random departure flight orientation, suggesting disruptive effects lasting beyond immediate exposure. These findings suggest that electromagnetic pollution has the potential to have a greater effect on animal behavior than previously assumed.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Bat Biology and Ecology Studies Electromagnetic Fields and Biological Effects Animal Vocal Communication and Behavior

Publication details

Journal / source
Science
Publisher
American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)
Volume
392
Issue
6801
Pages
977–979
Publication date
28 May 2026
Language
EN