Anecdotal Evidence Suggests Yes Science Offers Promise

Can Animals Predict Earthquakes?

Anecdotal Evidence Suggests Yes, Science Offers Promise

From fish to birds to reptiles and insects, anecdotal evidence abounds of animals exhibiting strange behavior anywhere from weeks to seconds before an earthquake. Minutes before the Naples quake of 1805, oxen, sheep, dogs, and geese supposedly started making alarm calls in unison, while horses were said to have refused to budge from their stalls.

While these stories are intriguing, scientific evidence of animals' ability to predict earthquakes is more elusive. However, some promising research suggests that animals may indeed have some ability to sense impending seismic activity.

Sensors Hint at Animal Abilities

One study, published in the journal "Nature Geoscience," found that dogs may be able to detect the P-wave, the first of an earthquake's seismic waves, which arrives in advance of the more damaging S-wave. The researchers analyzed data from thousands of dogs' activity trackers and found that dogs tended to increase their activity levels in the hours leading up to an earthquake.

Another study, published in the journal "Animal Behavior," found that rats may be able to detect changes in the Earth's magnetic field, which can occur before an earthquake. The researchers found that rats placed in a maze with different magnetic fields were more likely to choose the exit that led them away from the area where an earthquake was later detected.

Ancient Beliefs

The belief that animals can predict earthquakes has been around for centuries. In 373 BC, historians recorded that animals, including rats, snakes, and dogs, fled their homes before a major earthquake in Greece. In the 16th century, a Chinese seismologist named Gao Cheng wrote a book describing how animals' behavior could be used to predict earthquakes.

While the scientific evidence is still limited, the anecdotal and historical evidence suggests that animals may have some ability to sense impending earthquakes. As research continues, we may one day be able to use this knowledge to help us better prepare for these devastating events.