Why They fly in V-formation 

The recent conclusion from two aerodynamics at the California Institute of Technology is that large migratory birds fly in a V formation for practical reasons. It seems that by flying in this scheme, the birds stimulate themselves and increase the flight distance up to 71%. The theory is based almost entirely on the laws of aerodynamics, rather than on observations of birds in flight. But the angles V and the spaces reached by these experts in their calculations are very similar to those observed on the flights of migratory birds.

According to its conclusions, each bird in flight leaves a strong movement upwards or upwards outside the tips of its wings. By taking a position in the formation to take full advantage of this elevation, the next bird continues to fly more easily. This is very similar to the way a hawk or glider pilot uses the draft to stay in the air. Flying in this way reduces the forward speed of the birds, but increases their range. And considering the number of hundreds of kilometers traveled by migratory birds, you can understand why this type of flight is much more practical.

It may seem that in flying V formation, the main bird should do much of the work. But expert calculations show that, in this flight model, the update of the birds on both sides of the leader extends enough to help him. However, it depends on the spacing of the birds and the shape of the V. The leader will probably have to do more work and will therefore be the strongest bird, or perhaps the best navigator. In addition, birds at the outermost ends of the V can lighten their load by falling slightly.

Now what helps birds to stay put while flying like this? The analysis is that if a bird anticipates its correct position, it immediately feels a greater workload. This will bring him back to his rightful place. If he is late, he works less, but "social pressure" is suspected of forcing him to continue. Analysts argue that perhaps the continuous sound of Canadian wild geese in flight is indeed a demand for the laziest birds to stay in place.