Birds of a feather flock together, especially Red-billed Queleas

[av_textblock size=” font_color=” color=” av-medium-font-size=” av-small-font-size=” av-mini-font-size=” custom_class=” admin_preview_bg=”]

Red-billed Quelea (c) African Bird club

So why do they fly in such large numbers?

A large flock of birds means more eyes that are always on the lookout for predators. A similar example is that of sardines. Think of the well-known ‘sardine run’ that occurs each year along the South African West coast. When sharks or dolphins try to catch the fish, the sardines clump together into a ball-like shape and this means that the shark or dolphin can’t pinpoint which fish to grab so they end up missing. The same can be said for the Queleas. When a Peregrine Falcon approaches a flock they seem to almost come together. This confuses the Falcon and it just puts its feet out and hopes to make a kill. This way the whole flock survives the onslaughts of predator birds and their safety increases one-hundred fold. Should a bird stray it will be easy pickings for the Falcon, as the Falcon can now focus on an individual and earn itself an easy meal.

Do they not fly into each other?

When these small birds fly together in these large masses there seems to be synchrony of sorts, like a well-choreographed dance where everyone is on point.  These mass flights happen very quickly and each bird is tuned into its surroundings perfectly. When a bird suddenly moves into the path of the bird beside it, that bird will immediately react and move out of the way to avoid a collision. This is then repeated instantly and what we see at ground level is a flowing movement almost like a living wave of sand blowing in the wind.

A large flock of Red-billed quelea

The next time you get to see a massive flock of Red-billed Queleas, try to pick out an individual and then keep sight of it. Good luck!
[/av_textblock]

About the Author:
Ross Hawkins

Ross Hawkins

Explore more

a group of students looking at tracks in the sand
Blog

Understanding Wildlife Tracking

The ancient art of tracking unveils the secrets of animal behaviour. We explore the key steps of identifying, interpreting, and tracking wild animals in the heart of the South African wilderness.

“Do not be afraid to get dirty. Get down on your knees and have a close look at the tracks. It is essential to take your time. You can make a mistake by being too quick on the trigger when identifying tracks,” said Gerhard Delport, a former EcoTracker student.

Read more
students at lanner gorge
Blog

EcoTraining Celebrates 30 Years of Excellence

Thirty years of EcoTraining is a significant milestone. This celebration is a testament to EcoTraining’s long history of promoting field guiding and wildlife conservation. It’s an opportunity to inspire the next generation of passionate individuals who will continue the legacy of creating guardians of the natural world.

Read more
a group of students walking in nature.
Blog

How do I become a Backup Trainee for EcoTraining? 

“To be selected as a backup trail guide is a privilege and carries great responsibility. You are responsible for the life of the Lead Trails Guide and the lives of guests who are with you and require a great deal of trust”, says Gino Cinquina, former EcoTraining Backup. As a backup trainee for EcoTraining, you can walk in beautiful wilderness areas and experience incredible moments on foot with wild animals.

Read more

Start your wildlife career

Want to become a field or nature guide? Explore our immersive courses and training programmes for professional safari guides and guardians of nature, taught and led by experts in the industry.

EcoTraining offers career and accredited courses, wildlife enthusiast courses, gap year programmes and customised group travel courses.

Join our nature-loving community.

× Available from 08:00 to 16:30 Available on SundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFridaySaturday