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World News

Researchers create zombie duck drones from bodies of dead birds

By
Dean Murray, SWNS
Published Nov. 6, 2024, 10:18 a.m. ET

Researchers have developed zombie duck drones made from the bodies of dead birds.

A team at New Mexico Tech has found a way to use body parts to create realistic avian imposters.

They believe the drones would aid wildlife monitoring by blending in a natural environment.

A zombie duck drone in the water
Researchers have developed zombie duck drones made from the bodies of dead birds. New Mexico Tech / SWNS

After showcasing the idea last year, mechanics have now been incorporated into ducks that can swim on water and pigeons fitted with cameras in their necks.

Assistant professor of mechanical engineering Dr. Mostafa Hassanalian says the team does not kill birds for the devices and they haven’t been developed for espionage.

A team at New Mexico Tech using body parts of dead ducks to create realistic avian imposters.
A team at New Mexico Tech are using body parts of dead ducks to create realistic avian imposters. New Mexico Tech / SWNS

The team explains: “The latest developments in the project focus on two taxidermy-preserved mallard ducks, engineered as both flapping and swimming drones.

“The swimming version replicates the duck’s leg movements, enabling realistic, natural motion in water.

mallard duck drone under construction on a work table
The mallard duck drones can swim by kicking their legs and flapping their wings. New Mexico Tech / SWNS
The pigeon drone perched on a styrofoam block
The team is advancing the project by integrating shape memory alloys into the claws of a taxidermy pigeon, aiming to enable it to perch and observe a scene. New Mexico Tech / SWNS

“This innovative project blends avian physiology with advanced drone mechanics to create drones that closely mimic the natural flight patterns and behaviors of real birds.”

Beyond the mallard duck drones, the team is advancing the project by integrating shape memory alloys into the claws of a taxidermy pigeon, aiming to enable it to perch and observe a scene.

Dr. Mostafa Hassanalian explains: “I should mention that the main and only use for this project is wildlife monitoring, not spying. Drones are being used for wildlife monitoring; however, they create lots of noise which could scare the animals.

Prototype bird held up by a hand
“This innovative project blends avian physiology with advanced drone mechanics to create drones that closely mimic the natural flight patterns and behaviors of real birds,” the team said. New Mexico Tech / SWNS

“No real birds were physically harmed in the making of the drones, and we do not intend to do this at all.

“We have only used the feathers and taxidermy birds that are available in the market and have worked with local taxidermy artists.”

Some of the deceased bird drones from the research on display
Assistant professor of mechanical engineering Dr. Mostafa Hassanalian says the team does not kill birds for the devices and they haven’t been developed for espionage. New Mexico Tech / SWNS

The team adds: “The overarching goal of this project is to develop safe, eco-friendly platforms that can support wildlife monitoring, mitigate bird strikes near airports, and offer novel approaches for environmental observation and research.

“This fusion of taxidermy with drone technology marks a new era in bioinspired engineering, setting the stage for versatile, low-impact drones that harmonize with nature.”