Amazing stuff and I believe the leader changes every now and then to give one of the others a chance to lead the way. Hugs jamp
nlbuchanan
Oct 5, 2017
Gee, I thought they changed leaders because being in front and breaking through the oncoming air was so hard the leader had to fall back to the back and be carried by the current created by the birds in front of it. The idea of the leader being kind enough to allow others to lead never crossed my mind.
aknan
Oct 5, 2017
Actually, nlb, you're right. The lead bird has the most high-energy spot and does fall back when tired. It's the oldest known example of "drafting", i.e., using the draft from the vehicle (or bird) in front of you to pull you along easier.
aussiesapphire
Oct 5, 2017
Nlb - Ooops my mistake, should have added what you and Aknan have said. A little knowledge can sometimes be dangerous lol. Hugs to both of you.
bmoo1952
Dec 10, 2017
Do you know why one line in the formation is longer than the other? It's because there are more geese in it.
Be aware that if there's been a warm spell, then the colours are not that bright. Hubby and I went up to Algonquin Park which is a massive provincial park. The colours were not that bright. Hubby wasn't feeling well, so he drove and I left the car to investigate. I had fun but not so sure about the husband. We went several years ago, had lots of fun but I managed to sprain my ankle so that second day was slow. Nice thing is though, that we timed the stay to the peak of the fall colours. We've got some great photos of that time.
elijah13
Oct 5, 2017
Talked to my cousin this morning. Leaves are starting to turn. They had some very hot weather about 2 weeks ago--in the 80's. Anyway, it will be cooler. We have had lots of rain--off and on-because of the storms all around Florida.
aussiesapphire
Oct 5, 2017
Hi taffi, when I was living in Canada, visited Algonquin Park a couple of times, so brings back a few memories. Hugs.
The other day I saw a flock of Canadian geese, in a perfect
V formation, heading south.
God bless you all.