When a flock of birds fly, why do they fly in a V shape??

Answer 1

Scientists who have studied formation flight believe that birds fly in this way for two reasons. The first reason is that the shape of the formation reduces the drag force that each bird experiences compared to if it were flying alone. This decrease in drag occurs thanks to the formation of wingtip vortices described in previous articles
These vortices are generally undesirable because they create a downwash that increases the induced drag on a wing in flight. However, this downwash is also accompanied by an upwash that can be beneficial to a second wing flying behind and slightly above the fir

Read more on:- More details on: http://www.aerospaceweb.org/question/nature/q0237.shtml

Answer 2

This is mainly to do with geese and the like when they are migrating. The bird at the front creates a sort of wind wave and the other birds behind fly in its drag. That way the birds behind use less energy. The lead bird is frequently relieved by others in the flock and they all take a turn at the 'blunt end.'
Other birds, such as budgerigars do not fly like this. They appear to fly randomly in each other but as an entity as a flock. It is thought that this is to confuse predators.

Answer 3

Scientists have given a clear demonstration of why birds fly in a "V" formation.
It is something the animals do because it reduces energy expenditure, helping large birds to migrate in groups.

Everything that has been done until now has been theoretical, based on aerodynamic models

A French team was given a unique opportunity to study great white pelicans that had been trained to fly behind an aircraft for a feature film.

They found that the birds' heart rate went down when they were flying together and they were able to glide more often.

The energy saving may be crucial for migrating birds, which spend thousands of kilometres on the wing.

Answer 4

Scientists who've studied formation flight believe that birds fly in this way for 2 motives. the 1st reason is that the form of the formation reduces the drag tension that each chicken studies while in comparison with if it have been flying on my own. yet another concept as to why birds fly in formation is this orientation helps the birds to chat extra actual. The V formation supplies the birds with solid seen touch of another to maintain the flock mutually. This verbal replace minimizes the opportunity of dropping birds alongside the way because of the fact the formation crosses great distances in the time of migration.

Answer 5

Turbulance basically.Just like in formula 1 cars when they travel behind another car they are in dirty disrupted air that doesn't flow over the wings correctly thus slowing them down and making the cars work harder,pull out to one side where clean air is avalible, reducing turbulance making movement easier.Plus it gives a clearer view ahead obviously.It dont taken 100 scientists and £1000's to work out ....

Answer 6

It requires less effort for the following birds...& only the front one knows the way !

Answer 7

I vaguely remember hearing that they also use it as a form of protection in the event that they spot an enemy approaching, I could be totally wrong, I just thought I had heard that somewhere!

Answer 8

it has to do with "drafting." the first bird breaks the wind so the ones behind it dont have as much wind resistance

Answer 9

So that every bird can see the 'Alpha' bird and follow them

Answer 10

because any other shape like an "O" or a "B" are a little difficult!
the guys at the back wont get to see too much!