Question: Why do birds sit on electric lines, and why do they seem to have favorite spots on them? No matter when I go by I-275 at Loveland, there are birds sitting on one particular line and in the same 20-foot space.

        Answer: In brief:

        • Because they can see better.

        • Because they can hold on better.

        • And because there might not be enough tree branches for everybody coming in for a landing at the same time.

        “Unfortunately, one portion of the explanation is that we have cut down many trees and there aren't as many perching areas as there once were,” says David Oehler, curator of birds at the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden.

        “On the brighter side, the wires afford birds a good vantage point to survey their surroundings. Some birds watch for danger; others are on the lookout for their next meal.

        “Another motive for sitting on wires is less obvious. The wires are a suitable size to allow birds to perch and rest comfortably. When a bird sits on a perch that is the appropriate diameter, (its) feet can wrap around well. As (its) legs bend, a tendon pulls on the toes and tightens the grip . . . on the wire. This means that birds can hold on tight, even when they are sleeping.

        “Try that sometime when you feel tired.”

        As for congregating repeatedly in the same spots, Mr. Oehler says, “Mainly, there is safety in numbers, and the more eyes looking for danger and food, the better.

        “The wires that are chosen usually are just in a prime location. The vantage points give the birds a good view of the surrounding area and are convenient to foraging areas.”

        If you have a stupid question, send it to Ask a Stupid Question, Cincinnati Enquirer, 312 Elm St., Cincinnati OH 45202; fax: 768-8330; e-mail mpulfer@enquirer.com.

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