A team of researchers at New Mexico Tech has developed innovative technology for observing winged wildlife using observation drones , also called “zombie drones” because they are made from preserved bird carcasses. This approach, which combines taxidermy with advanced drone engineering , aims to monitor wildlife more efficiently and in a way that is respectful of the natural environment.
How do these zombie drones work?
Drones created from bird carcasses are designed to replicate the natural movements of flyers. In this case, the duck drones can swim in water , accurately mimicking the leg movements of a real duck. Additionally, the team has integrated cameras into the pigeons’ necks, allowing them to capture detailed images as they perch—all without disturbing the animals or the ecosystem.
Dr. Mostafa Hassanalian, an assistant professor of mechanical engineering at New Mexico Tech, clarifies that no live birds have been used in the making of these flying devices . Instead, birds already preserved by local taxidermist artists are used. The proposal It is not oriented towards espionage, but towards environmental observation and wildlife monitoring , minimizing the noise and impact that other drones can generate on winged animals.
Potential of these drones for ecological conservation
This observation drone project offers a solution for monitoring wildlife and preventing bird accidents at airports . The ability of aerial robots to mimic real birds reduces collisions between aircraft and birds, an increasingly common problem in many parts of the world.
The New Mexico Tech team continues to work on new versions of the project, including drones that mimic bird behavior even more accurately . This opens up a range of possibilities for future applications in ecology, conservation, and environmental research.
A greener future with bio-inspired engineering
This innovative project combines the principles of bio-inspired engineering with taxidermy, opening up new possibilities for the use of drones in wildlife observation. As technology advances, unmanned vehicles are becoming more efficient, environmentally friendly and respectful of nature. The team’s vision is to create safe, low-impact platforms that harmonize with the natural world, while supporting environmental research and conservation efforts.
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Source and photos: FOX54 NEWS
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