In ecosystm all  birds have 7 basic behavioral states they exist in.  A flock may be in one state and desire to be in another, and the combination of the two, produce a third.  Conditions in ecosystm and certain genetic pre-dispositions modify these behaviors.  This way, the flocks exhibit a complex and flowing behavior which is constantly influenced by the world around them.

ACTION STATES

When you play ecosystm, you navigate the environment and encounter other flocks.  You can switch to different action states to interact with the flocks.  The behavioral rules for flocks not controlled by a player also include switching to action states, according to their needs and conditions in ecosystm.


Breeding (keyboard "B" key)

When a flock wants to breed, it clusters in a small circle and travels across ecosystm in search of a mate.  When 2 or more flocks co-mingle in breeding behavior, mateing commenses 

When strutting, the flock groups together to make a stunning display of its ploomage.  This occurs as a prelude to breeding, and when more than two flocks are co-mingled in breeding behavior, as a means of attracting a mate away from a competitor

Sometimes durring mateing, a strut is not enough.  When Jousting, a flock will try to drive away a competeing flock.

When feeding,  a flock exhibits excited activity, and seeks out a food supply. When it finds one, it pounces.

Sometimes the flock just needs a rest.  Perching occurs often after feeding, and often while perching, a flock decides it would like to breed.

You have to look nice!  The keyboard B key triggers bathing, but only if you are over a watering hole!

Normal default behavior, a flock travels through ecosystm, looking to meet new flocks, find a meal, and wash up afterwards.  Maybe find a cool place to take a nap.