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

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around identifying which animal, either a bird or an insect, has the most powerful wings relative to its size, particularly focusing on those that produce a high amount of lift despite having a short wingspan or a larger body proportionate to their wings.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the hummingbird may have the most powerful wings relative to its size.
  • Another participant questions the relevance of a linked video, implying that the insect shown does not accurately represent the discussion topic.
  • A participant expresses skepticism about the possibility of any insect producing significant lift, suggesting that it is unlikely.
  • One participant humorously claims "Dumbo" as the answer, possibly referencing the fictional character rather than a real animal.
  • A participant shares observations about the brown pelican, noting its impressive flying capabilities and suggesting that larger birds may also be strong fliers.
  • Another participant anticipates that the most powerful winged creatures are likely to be insects, citing the strength of assassin bugs that can overpower larger prey.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on which creature has the most powerful wings relative to size, with no consensus reached on a definitive answer. The discussion includes both birds and insects as potential candidates.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific examples and personal observations, but there is no detailed analysis or empirical data provided to support claims about lift generation.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in comparative biology, aerodynamics of animals, or those curious about the capabilities of birds and insects may find this discussion relevant.

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.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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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