Why Do Flamingoes Stand on One Leg?

Flamingos can stand on one leg for hours at a time.

Flamingos, those well-known pink wading birds, often stand on one leg as they are resting. There is no certain answer to explain this behavior, but there are a number of theories.

Theories

It is commonly thought that standing on one leg might reduce fatigue in the birds' legs, or that it allows the flamingo to escape from predators more easily.

Leg Tucking

Another unproven theory is that flamingos are able to allow half their body to go to sleep at one time. When one half is rested, they switch legs.

Flamingo Study

Matthew Anderson, a scientist who is interested in studying the evolution of behavior, performed a study at the Philadelphia Zoo. His was the first scientific study to test explanations for the flamingo's habit of standing on one leg.

Conserving Energy

The results of Anderson's scientific study led him and his team to believe that flamingos stand on one leg to conserve body heat and consequently save energy.

Protection From Parasites

Anderson also believes there may be other health benefits provided by the flamingos' stance, since it may minimize contact with parasites or fungi in the water.

References

• Flamingoes
• Matt Walker; "Why Flamingoes Stand on One Leg"; 2009.
• Andrea Thompson; "Why Flamingoes Stand on One Leg"; 2009.