Rescue beetle fitted with - The Sun

AMAZING micro wizardry has been unveiled by scientists to fit cameras and microphones on bugs to help them search for disaster survivors.

Experts say flying insects can be fitted with a "backpack" of sensors, powered by energy harnessed from wing movement.

They would be released into collapsed buildings and other areas deemed too dangerous for rescuers to search after disasters such as an earthquake.

Researchers reckon the bugs could also be used by the military and hope to commence test flights next year. Professor Khalil Najafi, who is developing the technology in the US, said: "We could send these 'bugged' bugs into dangerous or enclosed environments."

The University of Michigan team has been able to harness power from the wing movement of a green june beetle, which is less than an inch long.

They are pursuing patents for the technology and seeking investors to help them continue with their work.

c.grant@the-sun.co.uk