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How a spider's web inspired bird-friendly UV glass

Threads called stabilimenta on the orb-weaver spider's webs have inspired a glass design that deters birds from colliding with windows. The threads reflect ultraviolet light and are thought to affect the flight paths of birds.

Digital producers: Jennifer Green and Jack Burgess
Animator: Jules Bartl
With thanks to Dave Wyatt (EU Glass), Jim Reynolds (University of Birmingham) and Fritz Vollrath (University of Oxford).

Illustration: Spider's web hanging between two plants Credit: 成人快手/Jules Bartl

Release date:

Duration:

1 minute