Tarnekõhikuste

Tarnekõhikuste, often referred to as "migration season" or "seasonal migrations" in English, is a biological phenomenon observed in various animal species. It describes the regular, often annual, movement of a population from one location to another. This movement is typically driven by changes in environmental conditions, such as the availability of food, suitable breeding grounds, or temperature fluctuations. The term is particularly used in Estonian and can encompass a wide range of migratory behaviors.

Many species undertake tarnekõhikuste, including birds, mammals, insects, and fish. For instance, many bird species migrate south for the winter to escape colder climates and find more abundant food sources, returning north in the spring to breed. Similarly, certain mammals, like caribou or wildebeest, undertake vast overland migrations in search of fresh pastures. Insects, such as monarch butterflies, are well-known for their long-distance migratory journeys. Marine animals, like salmon or whales, also exhibit migratory patterns to reach spawning grounds or feeding areas.

The triggers for tarnekõhikuste are complex and can involve both internal biological cues, such as hormonal changes, and external environmental factors, like photoperiod (day length) and temperature. Navigation during these migrations is an extraordinary feat, with animals utilizing a variety of senses and mechanisms, including the Earth's magnetic field, celestial cues, and olfactory signals. The success of tarnekõhikuste is crucial for the survival and reproductive success of many species, and understanding these movements is vital for conservation efforts.