Lessons from the Geese
This fall, when you see Geese heading south for the winter, flying along in "V" formation, you might consider what science has discovered as to why they fly that way. As each bird flaps its wings, it creates uplift for the bird immediately following. By flying in "V" formation the whole flock adds at least 71% greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own.When a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to go it alone and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird in front.When the Head Goose gets tired, it rotates back in the wing and another goose flies point.Geese honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.Finally, and this is important, when a goose gets sick, or is wounded by gunshots and falls out of formation, two other geese fall out with that goose and follow it down to lend help and protection. They stay with the fallen goose until it is able to fly, or until it dies. Only then do they launch out on their own, or with another formation to catch up with their group.
Balisha
7 comments:
I had no idea they were so devoted that they wouldn't leave a fallen friend. That is remarkable.
Marnie
I thought it remarkable too. I remember it was a thrill to see them over head in their formation...now some are here all the time.
I had a pair of geese that used to visit my bird feeder at my old home, I always thought they must have nested nearby but I never found one.
Great info, learn something new everyday :)
They nest here...right out in the open in a grassy area by the river. the area floods and then it dries out...they just adapt.
I am so glad you posted this. I always watch the geese fly over my house on their way south. They fascinate me with the "V" formation. I am so glad now I know why they do this. How interesting.
What an informative post Balisha. I knew that they flew in formation for a reason but I didn't know these facts.
I'm still wondering about the goose falling and two going down with it. I never heard of that happening, when hunters shoot them.. I would think they would get out of there fast.
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