Flamingos often stand on one leg for long periods, and for a long time, scientists weren’t sure why. But recent research revealed a fascinating reason: standing on one leg actually uses less muscle effort for them than standing on two.
Flamingos have a unique locking mechanism in their legs that lets them stay upright with almost no muscular activity. This not only conserves energy, but helps regulate their body temperature. By tucking one leg up close to their body, they lose less heat to the cool water or air.
So next time you see a flamingo posing elegantly on one leg, know this: they’re not just being fabulous—they’re being efficient.