Naked Science Forum

Life Sciences => The Environment => Topic started by: melaniejs on 25/02/2020 13:15:18

Title: Could we train hedgehogs to rescue folk in earthquakes?
Post by: melaniejs on 25/02/2020 13:15:18

Paul asks:

Could we train hedgehogs to rescue folk in earthquakes?

I wonder if it would be particularly good at night, and because it is small and could lead ropes down dark holes etc.
Furthermore, its spikes might be able to tell the different materials that it touches  (steel vs concrete), and could be good inspiration for a robotic rescue device?


Anyone thought about hedgehogs to the rescue as well?

Title: Re: Could we train hedgehogs to rescue folk in earthquakes?
Post by: Petrochemicals on 25/02/2020 13:43:31

I think somthing from the weasle family is a better bet, they are superb climbers, are quick and dont tend to ball up.

Title: Re: Could we train hedgehogs to rescue folk in earthquakes?
Post by: Colin2B on 26/02/2020 04:25:07

Quote from: melaniejs on 25/02/2020 13:15:18

Furthermore, its spikes might be able to tell the different materials that it touches

Might make it difficult to back out of tight spaces!

Title: Re: Could we train hedgehogs to rescue folk in earthquakes?
Post by: alancalverd on 26/02/2020 10:49:09

The advantage of dogs is that they actually like people. Hedgehogs tend to run away.