The Herd or Flock Quitters
(Internet Published) Oct 2000
Ornithological and zoologically, the specimens that get detached from the
herd or mass flock are the most likely to be killed by predators or raptors.
The basic law is that there is safely in numbers and a compact herd or flock
represents a more formidable target. To be singled out and isolated is the
most vulnerable aspect of survival. The specimens that prefer to be
individuals are either victims or highly successful contenders in the
survival game.
The subject is extremely debatable. The racing pigeon that cuts loose from
the mass and forges ahead may win a race. If such a pigeon develops this
cutting loose and forging ahead syndrome it indeed has superb character.
Such specimens will fetch thousands of pounds or Dollars.
Whether or not the syndrome is genetically transmitted to or from such
specimens is extremely doubtful, but most men seem to think so. At extreme
altitudes a kit of high flying Tipplers or Tumblers may be caused to split
due to a Falcon or some other unidentified flying object or even nothing at
all, for there is little logic in the minds of pigeons and no man will ever
completely understand them. I have witnessed many of these seemingly
hysterical and mindless stampedes even terminating into the darkness. I take
note of these that quit a hysterical bunch and orientate on their own
because this proves sense and initiative rather than the dreaded "Lemming
Syndrome", whereby all perish.
Right or wrong the contest Tipplers must stick together as a kit. The tight
Kit Syndrome is an essential for marathon Tippler contests. A split kit is
taboo. With racing pigeons the flock quitter may the champion or it may be a
complete failure. A kit of Rollers may become hysterically stampeded and
only the few free thinkers may cut loose and return on the day. Usually
these are not the best performers.
It's debatable whether the close kit syndrome is strength or a weakness. I
would say that if the exercise is a success, then the syndrome is a success.
If the exercise fails - the syndrome is a failure. Not a very clever
conclusion, is it?!