Which creature has the most powerful wings relative to its size?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on identifying the creature with the most powerful wings relative to its size, highlighting the hummingbird and the brown pelican as significant contenders. The brown pelican is noted for its impressive flying capabilities despite its large body, while the assassin bug is mentioned for its ability to overpower larger bumblebees. The conversation emphasizes the unique adaptations of these species that allow them to generate substantial lift relative to their body size.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of animal physiology and biomechanics
  • Familiarity with avian and insect flight mechanics
  • Knowledge of species such as hummingbirds and brown pelicans
  • Basic grasp of ecological interactions among predators and prey
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the flight mechanics of hummingbirds and their unique wing structures
  • Investigate the feeding behaviors and flight adaptations of brown pelicans
  • Explore the predatory strategies of assassin bugs and their impact on local ecosystems
  • Examine comparative studies on lift generation in birds versus insects
USEFUL FOR

Biologists, ecologists, ornithologists, and entomologists interested in the mechanics of flight and the ecological roles of various species.

PhysicoRaj
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Which animal's (bird or insect) wings produce the highest amount of lift, despite having short wingspan or a fat body (proportional to it's wings' size)??
 
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Your insect is closely related to this squirrel:



Or, in other words - video you posted has nothing to do with the reality.
 
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So there can't be any insect with that much lift...right?
 
Yes.
 
Having spent some down-time between jobs around the Gulf coast, I was quite impressed with the flying capabilities of the brown pelican. They are pretty massive-looking birds, and as they feed they are scooping up lots of salt water to get to the schools of small fish that they feed on. Impressive, strong fliers.

I expect though that the outliers will be in the realm of insects, though. Each summer, I anticipate the return of the assassin bugs, which can kill and lug off bumblebees that appear to be much more massive than they are.
 

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