Why when birds sleep they don't fall?

Answer 1

Because their body stays centered to gravity.If a branch sways while they are roosting the bird sways with it even when they are asleep.Even when they are asleep they keep their equilibrium.They also bend their legs so they are resting their body in between their knees or just over them.I forget the exact term of what this is called but that is why they don't fall off their perch.

Answer 2

It's actually an interesting question with a fascinating answer. Birds don't have muscles in their legs - only tendons. When they lock onto something, they can't let go unless they're completely relaxed. When the birds are asleep, the same kind of reflex happens to stop the tendons from unclenching as happens with us to stop us from peeing. The nervous system acts to keep the feet clenched.

This is also why, if you're grabbed by a bird of prey, you can't get them off (unless you know how) until they're completely relaxed.

Answer 3

They are just made like that. I dont know.... lol... But thats true. They dont make bird beds or they would sleep in them. I guess thats why when they are in the nests, they lay their heads down. They seem to be able to relax more when they are in the nest.

Answer 4

For the same reason you do not stop breathing when you sleep. It is an involuntary response to remain upright and attached to a branch.

Answer 5

Their legs 'lock' in position to let them sleep and stay upright at the same time. It is a soft 'lock', obviously.

Answer 6

I think their feet cling on well enough to prevent them from falling.

Answer 7

OMG that is so funny I always wondered that yet I have no answer

Answer 8

bcos they sleep in their nest!