The Gathering Swarms

Gr 4 Up—This documentary, which originally aired in May 2014, explores why a variety of animal species come together in massive numbers and act collectively to accomplish specific goals. The film looks at monarch butterflies, the budgerigars of Australia, sardines off the coast of South Africa, Emperor penguins, mayflies, Gulf grunion, cicadas, free-tailed bats, bees, army ants, and the wildebeest and zebra herds in east Africa. Also highlighted are an Asian species of silver carp and North African locusts, whose swarming behavior is the result of unintended human interference. Unlike the wildebeests that remain in their massive herd throughout their lives, certain species, like the Australian budgerigars, only gather at specific times or under certain circumstances. Protection against predators, breeding, and maintaining body warmth are shown to be primary purposes for swarming behavior. The film explores why scientists believe that, in massive numbers, these animals form a super organism with a collective consciousness for the ultimate benefit—and protection—of the entire group. In addition, the wildebeest and zebra herds provide thought-provoking comparisons for how individual vs. collective thinking can work for and against the herd. Excellent use of both slow- and fast-motion footage allow viewers to fully appreciate the single-minded purpose behind this behavior. Rich in visual and auditory details, this film can be a useful addition to units on animal behavior as well as a good choice for family viewing.—Cary Frostick, formerly with Mary Riley Styles Public Library, Falls Church, VA