Pigeon flock interaction pattern switching model and its synchronization analysis

Taking Columba livia as the research object, we summarized the dual-mode decision-making, mode-switch-ing, and dominant individual principles in the homing mechanism of pigeons to establish a pigeon flock interaction pattern switching model. In the model, the neighbor set and alignment weight in dual mode were set by mimicking the dual-mode decision-making principle, the switching rule based on the curvature of the group trajectory was set by mimicking the mode-switching principle, and the collection of higher-rank individuals was set by mimicking the dominant individual principle. On the basis of LaSalle’s invariant set theory, the conditions under which the pigeon flock can approach the target with collision-free and synchronous formations are given. Monte Carlo simulation was used to analyze the influ-ence of different parameters on the model characteristics. Results show that the synchronization of the model can be en-sured by setting the appropriate number of individuals, number of higher-rank individuals, and maximum velocity.