The Goose Story
The Canada Goose gives us a wonderful example of team support and commitment. Each spring and fall brings
the familiar "V" formation and the honking of the Canada geese to the skies of North America. Science has
learned much about the geese and why they fly the way they do.
As each bird flaps its wings, it creates uplift for the bird immediately following it. By flying in a "V" formation,
the whole flock can fly at least 70% further than if each bird flew on its own. Team co-operation does have its
advantages.
Should a goose fall out of the formation, it feels the resistance of trying it alone and quickly gets back into
formation to take advantage of flying with the flock/team. Perhaps it is easier to work with others who are
going in the same direction as ourselves.
When the lead goose gets tired, he or she rotates back in the wing and another goose flies on the point. Having
the strength and skills to fly point is something many in the flock/team members should have. In this way the
entire team shares the burden and not just one member. The geese honk from behind to encourage those up
front to keep up their speed.
When a goose weakens or is wounded and falls out of formation, two geese fall out and follow him or her
down to help protect the injured goose. They will stay with their fallen team member until he/she is able to fly
or dies. The support geese will then set out on their own or team up with another formation until they find their
own flock.
