What is the affect of an eclipse on plants and animals?

Humans are fascinated by the total solar eclipse set to occur on Monday, August 21. And though they may not know it yet, animals are also expected to change their behavior in unusual ways during the eclipse. read more

In other words, Chiu says, "the eclipse (two-and-a-half minutes of darkness) should not alter the running of the clock and its output (e.g. sleep-wake cycle, feeding rhythms, hormonal rhythms, etc.) in humans and in other animals." But it will affect animals in other ways, both subtle and obvious. read more

As part of a team of 250 people, astronomer Paul Murdin documented the effects of a total solar eclipse on Zimbabwe’s wildlife 2001. They had all gathered at the Mana Pools National Park on June 21, observing animals as the moon moved in front of the sun, casting a massive shadow over the park. read more