Why birds fly in a V formation

boing
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Originally published at: https://boingboing.net/2019/05/07/why-birds-fly-in-a-v-formation-2.html

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I remember a joke from my childhood:

Why is it that when birds fly in a V one side of the V is always longer than the other?

More birds

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Why birds fly in a V formation

They have a better chance at shitting on your car windshield, that’s why…

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Came here to post this same joke.

It’s still one of mine and my son’s favorite lame Dad jokes.

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I assumed it stood for “Vengeance”. Against whom, I never felt like it was my business to ask.

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See my post above, it’s scientifically proven.

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Because the one at the front has the map.

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I thought they were all chasing that one up front?

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It will be a bit of a shock if he turns around.

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Then maybe you’ll like this one.

What’s the bear minimum?

…One bear….

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I’ve already told that dad joke to my kid, haha.

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Honestly, I think it’s something else. Most non-predatory birds have eyes on the sides of their heads. They can see well one each side of their body, but not directly in front of them with stereoscopic vision like we have. So, if you can only see on the sides, then to “follow the leader”, you had better be to the left or right, and slightly behind the guy in front of you. Hence, a “V”.

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My theory has been for a long time: So they don’t shit on each other! They are in the air for hours.

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Sounds like a working theory to me.

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I read a book that said the V was for Vendetta. I don’t remember many birds though…

image

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Isn’t another part of this question why is it that some species of birds fly in V formation and some birds fly in flocks? Is it maybe due to size? It seems like larger birds may get more benefit from the V, and also be in less danger of being taken by a raptor

And how/why birds flying in V formation swap out the lead spot:

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ok that was cool but holy crap! this recommended video was the shizz

Seriously one of the best videos I think i’ve ever seen, all in 4 minutes.

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Avian fascism.

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that was awesome. Thanks

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