You know, you see them flying in V-formation, and I wonder how they determine who takes point.
2007-01-15 21:19:27 · 9 answers · asked by pandoraspocks2002 1 in Pets ➔ Birds
Geese and some other species of birds migrate in distinctive “V” or “U” formations or in lines. By taking advantage of the wing tip vortex of the bird in front, each bird can save energy by reducing drag. The energy savings in flight can be as much as 50%.
The leader breaks through the resistance of the wind, and the others glide more easily through the draft created. Flying in a V also lets all of the geese see ahead to identify obstacles or bad weather and to keep direction. The geese in the formation take turns being the leader. When the current leader gets tired, he drops to the back of the formation and another goes to the front. The lead goose is not necessarily an older or stronger goose. All geese are born with the ability to navigate. They are born with an excellent sense of direction that helps them find their way to their winter migration grounds then back to their hom
2007-01-15 21:36:26 · answer #1 · answered by Presto 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
They all take turns at point. In the V shape, the lead goose is more of a wind break for the rest of them. Those behind have an easier time flying. As the lead goose tires, it drops back and a new goose takes lead. They swap out continually in their flight.
2007-01-16 05:23:18 · answer #2 · answered by bakfanlin 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Rock, Paper, Scissors
2007-01-16 05:21:47 · answer #3 · answered by Matthew 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
actually i believe they switch and the ones on the end have it easier with less wind resistance, and when the leader gets tired they move to the back and ta da, musical flight positions.
2007-01-16 05:24:34 · answer #4 · answered by screwed "friend" 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
All of them pluck off a tail feather before take off, the one with the longest feather leads. LOL!
2007-01-16 05:26:24 · answer #5 · answered by maverick 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
The strongest and as that one gets tired he drops back and another takes over and so forth.
2007-01-16 05:31:26 · answer #6 · answered by london.oval 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
He's always the one up front!
The Alpha goose
2007-01-16 05:29:40 · answer #7 · answered by Shelty K 5 · 0⤊ 1⤋
hahah good question! umm maybe it*s like the oldest like the grandpa goose??
2007-01-16 05:22:45 · answer #8 · answered by sxylilcracker 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
they actually take turns probably the strongest goes first and they rotate somehow.
2007-01-16 05:23:03 · answer #9 · answered by xx_muggles_xx 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋