Bird 'murmurations' at Dusk in Copper

Just as the sun was setting over the ridge massive numbers of birds flocked over the small watering hole at Rock Creek Rd and Hwy 4. There numbers so massive that when they flew overhead they created a wind and a song all their own, which is termed a murmuration.

Why birds do this is not clear, yet scientists have theorized that it is a pre-roosting event, with larger numbers seen in the winter months to offset the cold. Greater numbers flocking = more heat. Yet, how they complete the spectacular dance, rising and falling, swooping and swaying through the air is unknown.