Researchers' understanding of the Long-eared bats' flying technique could lead to better drones

According to a study by researchers at Lund University in Sweden understanding of the Long-eared bats  ' flying technique could be significant for the future development of drones.

The researchers found that air behind the body of a long-eared bat accelerates downwards, which means that the body and ears provide lift.  Large ears do not merely create strong resistance, but also assist the animal in staying aloft. The forward motion is generated when the wings are held high and away from the body at the end of each beat. Researchers say "This specific way of generating power could lead to new aerodynamic control mechanisms for drones in the future, inspired by flying animals," 

Details appear in the latest issue of journal Scientific Reports13