What is a herd?
Q: What is a herd?
A: A herd is a large group of animals, usually mammals with hooves.
Q: What other terms are used for similar types of behavior in other types of animal?
A: For example, a large group of birds is usually called a flock and a large group of carnivores is usually called a pack. In addition, special collective nouns may be used for particular cases such as a flock of geese which may also be referred to as gaggle.
Q: How does the term "herd" differ from co-ordinated groups?
A: A herd tends to act together but this does not occur as result of planning or co-ordination. Each individual chooses behaviour that corresponds to that of the majority without any specific roles or instructions whereas in co-ordinated groups individuals have distinct roles and tasks.
Q: Are there examples where human groupings behave more like herds?
A: Yes, some human groupings may behave more like herds such as an army detachments or sports teams.
Q: Is herding an example of collective animal behavior?
A: Yes, herding is an example of collective animal behavior.
Q: Are there any other forms of communication between animals besides pheromones?
A: Yes, there are other forms of communication between animals such as visual cues and vocalizations which can be used to communicate with one another.
