A “murmuration” of starlings is pure mathematical chaos (larger shapes composed of infinitely varied smaller patterns). Each bird flies as close to its neighbours as possible, copying changes in speed or direction. As a result, tiny deviations by one bird are magnified and distorted by those surrounding it, creating rippling, swirling patterns. Why? Survival. To avoid flying predators, they seek safety in numbers, gathering in flocks and trying to avoid the edge of the group. Still glorious.