Animal Tech

One fall day, a Swiss engineer was hiking with his dog. Soon the dog was covered in cockleburs, which held fast to its fur. After years of study and experimentation, the engineer invented Velcro, with hooks and loops just like the cockleburs. What would life be like without Velcro? In Animal Tech: Fur & Claws, readers will learn about six life-changing technologies that have been inspired by mammals. They will follow the stories of the scientists and engineers who have harnessed mammals' abilities, developing them into powerful technologies that have shaped our world.

The ocean is a dark and mysterious place, full of fascinating creatures. Scientists continue to discover new things about these animals and the amazing abilities that allow them to thrive deep underwater. In Animal Tech: Flippers & Fins, readers will learn about six life-changing pieces of technology that have come from the study of underwater animals-from squid-inspired computer parts to tsunami sensors modeled after dolphin calls. By exploring the stories of inspiration and study that have led to these innovations, students will expand their learning of biology, engineering, and other STEM fields.