Abrupt flight patterns help evade predators: moths

1 of 2 Emperor Gum Moth / Fir0002 / License

Moths detect bat calls and avoid predation using sudden drops and weaving flight patterns.

Biomimicry Taxonomy

	Maintain physical integrity >
	Protect from biotic factors >
	Animals

Biomimetic Application Ideas

Improved collision-avoidance technologies

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[Collapse all sections] Summary

"Many species of moth can hear bats coming by listening in to their ultrasonic echolocation calls. They can therefore escape before being caught. Once the bat is within approximately 20 feet (6m), moths take abrupt evasive action, either by folding up their wings and dropping down out of the bat's flight path, or by embarking on a random, weaving flight that the bat cannot follow." (Shuker 2001:23)

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About the inspiring organism

Lepidoptera
Lepidoptera

Organism/taxonomy data provided by:
Species 2000 & ITIS Catalogue of Life: 2008 Annual Checklist

Bioinspired products and application ideas

Application Ideas: Improved collision-avoidance technologies.

Industrial Sector(s) interested in this strategy: Aviation, marine applications, wind industry

References

Shuker, KPN. 2001. The Hidden Powers of Animals: Uncovering the Secrets of Nature. London: Marshall Editions Ltd. 240 p.

Abrupt flight patterns help evade predators: moths

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