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A V formation (sometimes called a skein) is the symmetric V-shaped flight formation of flights of geese, ducks, and other migratory birds. Scientists have determined that the V-shaped formation that geese use when migrating serves two important purposes.
Our question tonight is, why do geese and other migratory birds fly in a V formation?
First, according to scientists, it conserves energy. Each bird flies slightly above the bird in front of him, resulting in a reduction of wind resistance. The birds take turns being in the front, falling back when they get tired. In this way, the geese can fly for a long time before they must stop for rest.
The second benefit to the V formation is that it is easy to keep track of every bird in the group. Flying in V formation may assist with the communication and coordination within the group. Fighter pilots often use this formation for the same reason.
