Researchers "revive" dead birds and turn them into "Frankenstein drones"

Albuquerque (New Mexico/USA) - Horror or science? Researchers from the USA have created a "Frankenstein drone" from dead ducks and pigeons. The creature is said to be almost indistinguishable from living birds.

The creature consists of the body parts of several dead ducks, can both fly and swim and looks very similar to a living duck.

The "Frankenstein drone" was developed by scientists at the research university New Mexico Tech and recently presented to the general public, reportsthe New York Post.

The researchers are already talking about a "new era of bio-inspired technology" and are convinced that their creations pave the way for "versatile, environmentally friendly drones that are in harmony with nature."

It is now possible to imitate the natural flight patterns and behaviour of real birds, emphasizes Dr. Mostafa Hassanalian, who is leading the project.

The robo-researcher categorically rules out using them for espionage purposes. He hopes that his creatures will one day be used to observe wildlife or protect airports from bird strikes.

Dr. Hassanalian assures: "No real birds were harmed in the creation of the drones, and we have no intention of doing so."

Only stuffed birds that are "available on the market" are used and the research manager emphasizes that he cooperates with local taxidermists.

Initial tests with the undead bird were promising. Videos show the creature swimming in the water and flapping its wings.

Although it has not yet been possible to integrate the creature into a real flock of birds, the researchers are working on it.