Flocking is a phenomenon in which a group of birds, or other animals, move together in a coordinated and cohesive manner. It is a form of social behavior which occurs in many species, particularly birds, and is an adaptation that has allowed birds to maximize protection and foraging efficiency. It has been studied by biologists for centuries, and continues to attract the interest of scientists today. At first glance, it may appear that the individual members of a flock have no ordered movement, yet when closely examined, flocks generally follow emergent patterns and behaviors that have been observed in multiple types of bird species. This includes flying in a V-shape, mixing of pressures within the flock, synchronous turning, and avoidance of obstacles. The flock may change formations while in flight to minimize energy, eventually conforming to a stable shape that maximizes the distance between flock members. Flocking behavior has been studied extensively in laboratory settings to better understand its benefits. Researchers have identified advantages such as improved navigation, protection from predators, and reduced energy expenditure for a flock, along with quicker reactions to external stimuli than for an individual bird. By studying the interactions between members of the flock, scientists have been able to increase the understanding of how a bird’s behavior can be influenced by its peers, and the ways in which birds communicate to form complex flock behavior. Understanding the phenomenon of flocking has helped uncover some of the ways that birds react and interact with their environment, allowing us to better appreciate the complexity of bird behavior and the natural environment.