Technology Inspired by Animals

Dragonflies have four wings that move independently, allowing for quick and silent flight. Today, researchers and engineers in the United States are making drones inspired by these insects. Discover more in Inventions Inspired by Flying Animals, a title in the Technology Inspired by Animals series.

Cats' eyes have an extra lens that bounces light back out of them. A man named Percy Shaw was inspired by cats' eyes to invent the reflectors that line most highways and roads. Discover more in Inventions Inspired by Mammals, a title in the Technology Inspired by Animals series.

Shark skin has tiny ridges, or denticles, that help sharks swim faster and more smoothly. Inspired by shark skin, researchers designed a new type of swimsuit with denticles. Discover more in Inventions Inspired by “Oceanic Animals”, a title in the “Technology Inspired by Animals” series.

Spiders make their webs from spider silk, which is both lightweight and extremely strong. Scientists are working to develop body armor and bulletproof vests made of spider silk. Discover more in “Inventions Inspired by Reptiles and Invertebrates”, a title in the “Technology Inspired by Animals” series.