Flockiformes

Flockiformes is a proposed order of birds intended to group species that rely on large, coordinated flocks for foraging, predator avoidance, and social interaction. The concept emphasizes life history traits and behavioral syndromes over strict anatomical similarity, and it has been discussed in the context of avian sociality and ecology rather than as a universally accepted taxonomic arrangement.

Description: Members of Flockiformes are typically medium-sized passerines or near-passerines. Their plumage is often cryptic or may feature color signals that function in flock coordination. They generally show adaptations for agile flight in crowded flock environments, including efficient wing morphology and strong maneuverability. Vocal communication tends to include communal alarm calls and synchronized songs that help maintain group cohesion and information transfer within the flock.

Distribution and habitat: Proposed members have been reported in subtropical to tropical regions across both hemispheres, occupying open woodlands, savannas, marsh edges, mangroves, and coastal scrub. Many species within this concept are nomadic or participate in long-distance migrations along major avian flyways, taking advantage of ephemeral resources that favor group foraging.

Taxonomy and phylogeny: The order was proposed to include several families currently placed in other groups, but its status remains controversial. Molecular studies have yielded conflicting results; some analyses place proposed flockiform lineages within established passerine families, while others suggest a distinct lineage. As a result, major taxonomic authorities do not consistently recognize Flockiformes as a formal order, and the concept is largely encountered in ecological or behavioral literature rather than formal systematics.

Notes: In practice, the term is used to describe convergent social ecology rather than a rigorously defined clade. Further research, especially comprehensive genomic analyses, would be required to determine whether Flockiformes represents a natural, monophyletic group.