Flood swarm form

Flood Swarms are the first flying incarnation of the Flood yet seen, and are featured in Halo Wars.

They were described by developers as "infected buzzards crossed with evil bats". These creatures travel in large airborne packs, and can emit barb-like projectiles to puncture enemies. They are relatively weak, but can easily dispatch most unprepared infantry. Ensemble Studios have confirmed that Flood Swarms are not the only airborne Flood units, much larger and deadlier creatures known as Flood Bomber Forms also appear in Halo Wars with the ability to drop Infection Forms. These flood units are used in multiple instances to either protect much larger forms or attack the player's base.