A new study from the Konrad Lorenz Research Center for Behavior and Cognition at the University of Vienna shows that in greylag geese, bold individuals are more likely to act as leaders while exploratory, curious geese tend to follow. Over four years, researchers observed hundreds of collective departures and analyzed traits like boldness, aggressiveness, and curiosity. The findings reveal that leadership in geese is less about aggression or dominance and more about protection and social influence, with followers actively choosing whom to follow based on benefits. The study provides new insights into collective decision-making and social learning in animal groups.
Source: University of Vienna
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