Why do flocks of birds swoop and swirl together in the sky? A biologist explains the science of murmurations

These coordinated movements of a flock of starlings follow no plan or leader. Scientists used to think the animals must communicate via ESP to create these fast-moving blobs.

By: Tom Langen, Clarkson University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: July 26, 2026

Words: 1,015

Last Updated: 3 weeks, 3 days ago

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By Tom Langen, Clarkson University

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to curiouskidsus@theconversation.com.

Why do flocks of birds swoop and swirl together in the sky? – Artie W., age 9, Astoria, New York

A shape-shifting flock of thousands of starlings, called a murmuration, is amazing to see. As many as 750,000 birds join together …

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