It is one of the simplest, but most enigmatic mysteries of nature: just why do flamingoes like to stand on one leg?
The question is asked by zoo visitors and biologists alike, but while numerous theories abound, no-one has yet provided a definitive explanation.
Now after conducting an exhaustive study of captive Caribbean flamingoes, two scientists believe they finally have the answer.
Flamingoes stand on one leg to regulate their body temperature, they say.
I think that it is a sexual thing. Kinda like when women check out a guy with big hands and feet. If both of the flamingos’ feet were in the water at the same time, how’s a female supposed to know what he has hidden under his feathers?
And I always thought that they stood on one foot because if they raised both feet, they would fall down…
Many birds have circulation systems that use countercurrent exchange. This type of circulation limits the amount of heat that is lost to the water the bird is standing in. Warm, arterial blood coming from the core of the body transfers heat to the cool, venous blood coming from the extremities. Heat loss is limited in a system like this. Flamingos likely stand on one leg to limit the amount of heat regulation that is needed.
I just thought it was an ego thing. Oh look at me I am so special cause I look pretty. Stupied birds, wish I had my gun, make some flamingo soup.
here is a picture of a real flamingo
