Computer model demonstrates desire for social proximity improves flight routes among pigeons

A new study conducted by Dr. Edwin Dalmaijer, a cognitive neuroscientist at the University of Bristol, UK, looked at the social influences on pigeon flight routes. Comparing the flight patterns of pairs of pigeons to a computer model, the researcher found that flight paths are improved as younger birds learn the route from older birds and also make route improvements, leading to overall more efficient routes over generations. The study is published June 6 in the open-access journal PLOS Biology.