Researchers create “zombie” drones from the bodies of dead birds: why do they do it?

The developers emphasized that they do not kill birds on purpose to make a drone, but buy the necessary materials from the markets.< /p>

Researchers have developed “zombie” drones made from the bodies of dead ducks. The New York post writes about it.

A team from New Mexico Tech found a way to use duck body parts to create realistic imposter birds. Mechanical applications are implemented in ducks and a video camera is installed.

The developers believe the drones will help observe wildlife by blending in with the natural environment.

Department of Mechanical Engineering Associate Professor Dr. Mostafa Hassanalyan says the team does not kill birds to create the drones, and they were not designed for spying.

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“The primary and only purpose of this project is wildlife monitoring, not spying. Drones are used for wildlife monitoring, but they make a lot of noise that can scare animals. No real birds were physically harmed during the creation of the drones, and we do not intend to do so at all.” to do. We used only those feathers and birds that were presented in the market and worked with local master artists,” — said Hassanalian.

The researchers explained that avian physiology is combined with advanced mechanics to create drones that closely mimic the natural flight patterns and behavior of real birds. In particular, the swimming version replicates the movements of a duck's feet, providing realistic, natural movement in the water.

“The main goal of this project is to develop safe, environmentally friendly platforms that can support wildlife monitoring, mitigate collisions with birds near airports and offer new approaches to environmental observation and research This merger of taxidermy with drone technology marks ushering in a new era in biotechnology, laying the foundation for universal low-impact drones that harmonize with nature,” — the statement of the developers says.