Why do migratory birds fly in a V shape?

Arabia Weather - If you look at the sky in the transitional periods between seasons, you must have seen a migratory flock of birds. Have you ever wondered why migratory birds fly in a V shape?

Why do migratory birds fly in a V shape?

In a study of ibises, scientists sought to explain this strange behavior. According to the report published on the Ibelevieinscience website, they concluded that these birds, which are characterized by their large wings, take specific positions during flight in which they benefit from the air current that arises as a result of the movement of their wings.

In fact, scientists have found two other reasons that may explain this type of flight. The first is because these birds follow the leader who is at the head of the flight, while the other reason is because flying in this way makes the trip easier.

The researchers discovered the answer by training the birds and equipping them with small electronic chips in their wings to monitor and guide the direction of their migration. Through comprehensive analysis of the collected data, it was found that the birds adopt harmonious geometric formations with the aim of taking advantage of the movement of birds flying in front to achieve additional propulsion.

The data shows that the bird advances itself forward by moving its wings downward, resulting in air movement from bottom to top. This airflow helps lift the birds naturally into the general flight pattern, without requiring additional effort.

What is striking is that birds manipulate the specific timing of the movement of their wings in order to save energy, by benefiting from the air movement that arises as a result of the movement of their wings, whether from bottom to top or vice versa.

Researchers are amazed at the ability of birds to coordinate their wingbeats in such an optimal way. In this context, David Lentinck, a mechanical engineer at Stanford University in California, pointed out that “determining the locations of air currents and how birds are accurately positioned within a flock requires conducting experiments by making the birds fly inside wind tunnels, a work that requires precise detail more than a recording process.” Data using electronic chips.

A previous study estimated that birds achieve energy savings of 20 to 30 percent when flying in a V formation.

Source: alarabiya