Natural Entrepreneur: Why Do Geese Fly in a V Formation?

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Why Do Geese Fly in a "V" Formation?

Answer: Energy conservation, visual assurance, and teamwork.

Until recently, scientists could only theorize as to why geese and other large, migratory birds adopted the V formation for flying long distances.

Most ornithologists believed that this formation made for more efficient flying but could offer no hard proof. However, a new study put this theory to the test. A team of scientists taped heart monitors to a group of pelicans that were trained to fly behind a small airplane.

They discovered that the heart rates of the birds were lower when flying in a V than when flying solo. Migrating birds use the "squadron" formation because it allows them to glide more often, conserving energy. The aerodynamic V shape reduces the air resistance, allowing the geese to cover longer distances. In fact, a flock of geese can fly 70 percent farther by adopting the V shape rather than flying in isolation.

The V formation may offer other benefits as well. Each bird has an unobstructed field of vision, allowing flock members to see each other and communicate while in flight.

The goose at the head of the V is not necessarily the leader of the flock. Apparently, geese take turns leading. As one bird tires, it drops to the back of the formation and another takes its place. Now that's what we call teamwork.

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