Why Geese Fly In Their Unique Formation

Science has discovered why geese fly in their unique “V” shape formation. By flying in a "V" shape formation, it is estimated that a whole flock adds at least 71 percent greater flying range than if each bird flew on its own. As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an up lift for the bird immediately following. 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. And when a goose gets sick or is wounded by gunshot, and falls out of the 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; and only then do they launch out on their own, or with another formation to catch up with their own group.

Moral: People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going much more quickly and easily, when they travel on the thrust of one another. They should stay in formation with those who are leading, and encourage them; and the leader should know when he is losing steam, and make room for a new leader; like the geese do.