Near-blind Ansell's mole-rats detect magnetic cues with eyes, study shows

Research shows Zambian species with surgically removed eyes change nest-building habits but other behaviours remain intact

Near-blind, underground-burrowing, African Ansell's mole-rats can sense magnetic fields with their eyes, a study has found.

Native to Zambia, the animals have eyes that span just 1.5mm in diameter, live in elaborate underground tunnel systems of up to 1.7 miles (2.8km) long and feed on plant tubers and roots.