RE: flying in a v formation
The v-formation is how almost all migrating birds fly. I'm not sure exactly why, but I do know that the arrangement of the v is decided by the age and dominance of each bird. Most family groups form their own v. The head goose is usually the oldest gander and if he is killed the lead goose spot is filled by the next oldest or dominant bird. If you shoot the birds towards the back of the flock you are more likely to have a more tender bird than you would if you shot the lead birds.