How Birds’ Beaks Could Solve Water Shortages | Biomimicry | Scoop.it

"The Idea: Collect water from fog in deserts and other regions where water is scarce using a method borrowed from birds. Researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington observed shorebirds such as phalaropes opening and closing their beaks in order to move water towards their mouths. The unusual drinking method inspired the researchers to create a beak-like fog collector. Composed of two plates joined at one end by a hinge, the collector accumulates water droplets on the inner surfaces of its “beak” while in the open position. Closing the “beak” merges tiny droplets into larger drops, which are able to roll towards the collection tube located near the hinge."