Why do geese fly in a "V" formation?

Answer 1

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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Answer 2

It's an aerodynamic energy-saving formation. The individual in the front does the hard work, and the rest of the geese arrange themselves in such a way that they have an easier time flying. The geese periodically change positions to spread the labor out among different birds.

It's the same reason that bicycle racers will ride directly behind another racer.

Makes me think of one of my favorite jokes:
-- Why does a vee of geese always have one side longer than the other?
-- More geese on that side.

I can always get people with that because I teach bio and people think that I know the real answer.

Answer 3

Geese Jokes

Answer 4

First, it conserves their energy. Each bird flies slightly above the bird in front of him, resulting in a reduction of wind resistance. The birds take turns being in the front, falling back when they get tired. In this way, the geese can fly for a long time before they must stop for rest.

The second benefit to the V formation is that it is easy to keep track of every bird in the group. Fighter pilots often use this formation for the same reason.

Answer 5

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
Why do geese fly in a "V" formation?

Answer 6

This is because the lead goose creates a slight vacuum and it is easier for the geese following to use less exertion in flying. One will find that occasionally the lead goose will fall back and trade with one that is ready to take over the lead.

Answer 7

see the advertisment about the geese (i think it was done by saachi and saachi) about "lessons from geese" it will help you as well as being fun to watch.
Yah I found it......take a look at it

Answer 8

It is believed that the head of the V (I mean the leading bird) pushes the air down and creates a more floatable air front for the rest of the group and this scheme flows through the formation. Everynow and then the leading bird changes its lead to conserver energy

Answer 9

when a bird is born it has in its instinct to either follow the bird on the left or on the right. the larger birds fly in a "V" because they are too big to just fly in flocks like smaller birds. fish schools work the same way. as long as each chooses to follow either the right or left they will all stay together.

Answer 10

it's becuase of air resistance and stuff, geese use less energy in a V formation and have better flight and stuff, so i think thats why