Flocking Behavior in Birds

Abstract

It is theorized that flocking behavior in birds is the result of a positive force associated with gregariousness and a negative force associated with intolerance and independence. Apparently gregariousness is not affected directly by either environmental or hormonal factors but seems to be due to stereotyped neural patterns. Social intolerance is clearly influenced by changing physiological and environmental factors. "Flocking reaches its highest development when gregariousness is given free rein, unrestricted by conflicting demands of reproduction and self-maintenance.