Researchers create zombie duck drones from the bodies of dead birds

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 bird decoys.

They believe drones would help monitor wildlife by blending into a natural environment.

After introducing the idea last year, the mechanics have now included ducks that can swim in water and pigeons equipped with cameras around their necks.

The assistant professor of mechanical engineering Dr. Mostafa Hassanalian says the team does not kill birds for the devices and they are not developed for espionage.

The team explains: “The latest developments in the project focus on two taxidermied mallard ducks designed as flapping and swimming drones.

“The swimming version replicates the movements of the duck’s feet, enabling realistic and natural movements in the water.

“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 mallard duck drones, the team is advancing the project by integrating shape memory links into the talons of a taxidermy pigeon, aiming to enable it to sit and survey a scene.

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

“No real birds were physically harmed in the production of the drones and we have no intention of doing so at all.

“We only used commercially available taxidermy feathers and birds and worked with local taxidermy artists.”

The team adds: “The main goal of this project is to develop safe, environmentally friendly platforms that can support wildlife monitoring, mitigate bird strikes near airports and provide new approaches for environmental observation and research.

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