Birds & Insects - Natural Flyers

Introduction:

                The course of human civilization, ever since its evolution, has been profoundly influenced by nature. Among other natural aspects, the fact that man has been awestruck by the flight of birds and other animals and has wanted to emulate them, can be traced back to ancient times. The mention of Icarus and Daedalus in Greek mythology to the success story of the Wright brothers, all reflect how much man has been captivated by the majesty of flight.

           Although the sheer ability to fly is a symbol of immense freedom and joy, animal flight has other important consequences as well. Pollination and dispersal of seeds, both brought about by flying birds and insects, are two such instances that are highly significant from a biological and ecological point of view. Flyers also travel the largest distances in the fastest and most energy efficient way - thus encroaching territories ahead of animals with some other form of locomotion.

           Bird and insect flight is an active area of modern research. Their flight mechanisms can be extremely complex, and the efficiency and maneuverability exhibited by these natural flyers continue to intrigue scientists. For example, a better comprehension of how many insects defy gravity, can lead to a breakthrough in research concerning the manufacture of unmanned micro-aircrafts. However, it is not just the ability of birds and insects to fly through air, against gravity, that poses a challenge to our understanding of fluid dynamics. The swimming of fish and other aquatic animals through water also does the same - although that is a complex research topic by itself, and is not explored in this web project. This web project attempts to explore some of the basics of bird and insect flight.