A bird tagged with a GPS device flies 140 km on day 1, and each day flies 12% less than the prior day. On which day does it fly less than 50 km for the first time?

Sun, 03 May 2026 17:36:17 +0000

**On Which Day Does a GPS-Tagged Bird Fly Less Than 50 km? A Daily Fly Pattern That Reflects Natural Decline Trends** Curious about how technology reveals surprising patterns in nature? A bird tagged with a GPS device begins its journey flying 140 kilometers on the first day, then each subsequent day covers 12% less distance than the day before. This gradual decline reveals more than just numbers—it paints a clear story of diminishing daily activity, inviting deeper reflection on wildlife behavior, energy conservation, and data interpretation. This daily journey of a tracked bird follows a predictable mathematical rhythm. Each day’s flight distance is 88% of the previous day’s, forming a steady exponential decay curve. Understanding when this distance first falls below 50 kilometers helps scientists and enthusiasts anticipate migration behavior, energy expenditure, and environmental interactions. For those tracking wildlife patterns in the U.S. and beyond, this data story offers tangible insight into natural rhythms shaped by biology and environment. ### Why the Decline Pattern Is Gaining Attention