Their sophisticated flying abilities have captured the attention of robot designers, especially those studying the use of drones in modern warfare.
“Hummingbirds are the best flyers out there,” said Bret Tobalske, professor of biology and director of the Flight Lab at the University of Montana.
The Flight Lab, accustomed to looking at the ecology, evolution and biomechanics of bird flight, is part of a broad effort, funded largely by U.S. defense dollars, to build a better robotic hummingbird.
“A real hummingbird can fly circles around robotic humming birds,” Dr. Tobalske said.
“They can fly circles around real birds too.”
Persons:
”, Bret Tobalske, Tobalske, “
Organizations:
University of Montana
Locations:
U.S
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