Flying in Formation

(cc) lostinfog - Flickr

(cc) lostinfog – Flickr

Last Friday evening I was driving south on Interstate 35E, coming back into Waxahachie from Dallas. It was about 7:30 PM. I had my window rolled down, enjoying the leisurely drive. All along the 35-mile route, I saw small flocks of migratory birds flying north. Many of the birds were flying in the typical V-formation.

You have probably noticed, as I have, that quite often, when migratory birds fly in a V-formation, one side of the V is longer than the other side. I have wondered as to the reason for this phenomenon. Is it more aerodynamically efficient? Does it help with navigation? After doing some heavy research, I have discovered the answer. I think you will be fascinated.

When migratory birds fly in V-formation, the reason one side of the V is often longer than the other is that there are more birds on that side! (Duh!)

Paul O'Rear Signature

 

Photo Credits:

  1. Migrating Sandhills, by lostinfog (Flickr), Creative Commons License.

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