Sure Sign of Fall

The Canada Geese are beginning to flock. They are practising flying in their famous V formation. I sigh as I watch their wonderful performance. What fascinates me is that they've been doing this for the past few weeks and will continue until "freeze up" which is not until the end of December here. Some will leave before and some after that.

So why do they start so early? Just to be "a get in my face" daily reminder that fall is here with winter to follow? Or do they really need that much practice?

When flying in a V, the lead goose reduces the wind resistance on the geese behind it, allowing them to use less energy in flight. This must mean that the lead bird has to be very strong to break the wind's resistance alone. The next two that follow are likely fairly strong as well, but the rest are just drafting. (Now I know why bikers get mad when others draft them in the important races, save energy, only to pull out, push it, and beat them in the end!)

While you watch Canada geese in flight, you notice their long necks and slow wing beats. Next, you will hear their trademark, deep musical honking sounds. It is surely a chorus in unison at this time of year!

Mother of Invention, listening the flocks flying overhead even as I type this!