Originally this was to protect them as an available food source for royal banquets, but now it simply gives these large edible birds protection from any sort of hunting. The Black-necked Swan is a native of South America. There is considerable argument among ornithologists concerning the reasons for, and benefits of this habit. These formations are not static and the lead bird changes during the flight. The Cascorala Swan is also a South American resident with a similar distribution to the Black-necked Swan.
Geese Geese are well-known birds.
The white farmyard goose is a familiar sight in many countries where it is bred for its eggs and meat. It also serves as an efficient 'watchdog' on many farms, creating a terrific honking if anyone strange approaches the farm. Geese are also familiar in the northern Hemisphere as migrants flying south from their nearctic breeding grounds every year in their classic V-formation. There are 14 species of true geese mostly confined to the northern hemisphere, except the Egyptian goose which is found throughout Africa. Geese are medium to large birds with long necks and strong legs.