Which is a phenomenon when hundreds or thousands of birds fly in intricately coordinated patterns through the sky?

Murmuration refers to the phenomenon that results when hundreds, sometimes thousands, of starlings fly in swooping, intricately coordinated patterns through the sky.

Scientists have been surprised to learn that the flying patterns of murmurations have more in common with physics than biology. Much remains unknown about murmurations. However, scientists now believe they may be able to describe murmurations using the principles of physics.

Scientists believe murmurations are similar to other systems, such as crystals forming, avalanches, metals becoming magnetized and liquids turning to gases. These systems are “on the edge,” which means they’re ready to be completely transformed in an instant.

Like the elements of these other systems, each starling in a murmuration is connected to every other starling. As shown in today’s video, when a murmuration turns in unison, scientists believe it’s like a phase transition.

Picture Credit : Google

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *