So if you see birds flying just above a lake, don’t immediately assume rain is coming.
They may simply be having lunch!
Why Do
Flocks Suddenly Fly Very Low?
Seeing one bird flying low is interesting.
Seeing an entire flock suddenly drop closer to the ground can be downright dramatic!
There are several possible reasons.
A Predator Could Be Nearby
Birds are constantly watching for danger.
A predator such as a hawk or falcon can cause a flock to suddenly change direction, scatter, climb, or dive.
From the ground, it can look like the birds are moving as one giant organism.
Discover more
Choose Bird Feeders
Order Meal Kits
Track Atmospheric Data
In reality,
they’re responding quickly to a perceived threat.
They’re Following Food
If insects are concentrated close to the ground, several birds may gather in the same area.
You might see an entire flock swooping repeatedly over grass or fields.