We now know how kestrels stay perfectly still while hovering
Researchers studied nankeen kestrels in a wind tunnel to understand their stability while hovering. Findings revealed minimal head movement and unique wing adjustments, leading to a prototype drone based on their mechanics.
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Researchers have studied nankeen kestrels to understand how they maintain stability while hovering in turbulent winds. The study, conducted in a wind tunnel, involved training two captive-bred kestrels over three years, during which they wore 52 reflective markers for precise tracking. The findings revealed that the kestrels' heads remained remarkably still, moving only 2 millimeters in any direction, which is crucial for their hunting behavior. Unlike fixed-wing aircraft, kestrels utilize morphing wings that allow for rapid adjustments in surface area, enhancing their hovering capabilities. Key movements include the deft manipulation of their wrists and the extension and retraction of their elbows, with their tails providing additional stability. The research team has developed a prototype unpowered drone based on these insights, focusing on the critical movements that contribute to stability. Testing of this robotic kestrel is currently underway, with results anticipated later this year.
- Nankeen kestrels can hover with their heads remaining still, crucial for hunting.
- The study involved training kestrels in a wind tunnel over three years.
- Kestrels use morphing wings for rapid adjustments, unlike fixed-wing aircraft.
- Key movements for stability include wrist manipulation and tail adjustments.
- A prototype drone based on kestrel anatomy is being tested for further insights.
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