What Does a Kingfisher Have to Do with a Bullet Train?
HEBRON, NH — A kingfisher and a high-speed train might seem to have little in
common. But when Japanese engineers were looking for a way to reduce the loud
boom created by trains exiting tunnels, they looked to the bird’s streamlined bill for
inspiration. The result was a redesigned train nose that reduced noise and improved
efficiency.
It’s a fascinating example of biomimicry, the practice of looking to nature for ideas and
solutions to human challenges.
Biomimicry will be the focus of the next Let’s Talk Nature: Slugs, Burrs & Brilliant Ideas,
hosted by the Newfound Lake Region Association on Wednesday, October 7th, from
10:30 to 11:30 am at the Grey Rocks Conservation Center, 178 North Shore Road in
Hebron.
From the hooks on burdock burrs that inspired Velcro to the unusual properties of slug
slime that are being studied for medical applications, nature is full of clever solutions.
The discussion will explore some of these surprising examples and consider what we
might learn by taking a closer look at the plants, animals, and ecosystems around us.
Let’s Talk Nature is designed as an informal, welcoming conversation rather than a
formal lecture. Participants receive a short article and supplemental materials to read
beforehand, then gather to share observations, questions, and ideas. No prior
knowledge is required.
For October’s discussion, participants are invited to read Kew’s “What is Biomimicry?”
before the event.
The program is free, and registration is encouraged. Drinks and cookies will be
provided.
For more information, to register, and to access the pre-reading materials, visit:
NewfoundLake.org/event/lets-talk-nature-slugs-burrs-and-brilliant-ideas
NLRA’s mission is to protect and improve the health of the Newfound Lake Watershed,
supporting ecosystem resilience and natural resource conservation through focused
programs and community engagement. More information about the Newfound Lake
Region Association and its education and outreach programs can be found at
NewfoundLake.org.