Did you know pheasants were bullet-proof? Apparently the bird will occasionally escape a shotgun bullet to the chest unscathed. Scientists are speculating that it could be due to the feathers absorbing the shot’s energy.


They are now studying the properties of the feather protein keratin and its potential use in high velocity impact protection, such as bullet-proof vests.

Talking of bio-inspired inventions, the sharkskin swimsuit was worn by 28 of the 33 gold medal winners at the 2000 Sydney Olympics! The suit is designed to channel water over the body, reducing drag in the same way that a shark’s skin does.

The humble pine cone is also serving as inspiration for clothing ideas such as anti-sweat ventilation flaps. They are designed to open and close in response to moisture when things get a bit sweaty.

What else will they come up with?!

Source: Naked Scientist