When Squids Fly… Wait, What?

This is certainly interesting news. Researchers have confirmed that squids can fly.

The Neon Flying Squid propels itself out of the ocean by shooting a jet of water at high pressure, then opens its fins to glide over the water. But it’s not just a jump, scientists say. The squids hold a very definite fly posture, with wings spread to maximize distance. At under 20 inches long, the squid can stay in the air for almost 4 seconds and travel up to 100 feet. That’s a faster pace than Usain Bolt’s World Record speed.

Experts say the squid fly to avoid predators and save energy during lengthy migration.

The chart below shows the mechanism that allows the squid to fly.