Tamiya 70257 Duck Bot - Walking & Swimming STEM Kit  [70257]

Discover the Tamiya 70257 Duck Bot - STEM learning model

The Tamiya 70257 Walking & Swimming Duck is built to teach mechanical motion through a fun assembly. Its dual mode operation makes it a hands on example of how linkages and small motors create lifelike movement, attractive to both learners and collectors.

How the linkage creates motion

A parallel linkage reproduces the familiar bobbing of a duck's head while the submarine motor supplies propulsion. The body and head use white polyethylene, the gearbox is gray polypropylene, and the motor achieves about 25cm/s across land and roughly 6.5cm/s in water. Typical run time is about 1.5 hours from one AAA battery, not included.

Build process and personalisation tips

Parts are designed to snap-fit and are secured with screws, so the build requires no glue and is accessible to a range of skill levels. The kit also contains waterproof decals for the beak and eyes, letting you add character and detail once construction is complete.

Use cases and teaching value

As an educational construction model, it makes abstract mechanical principles tangible. It works well in informal learning settings, small workshops, or as a quirky display item among themed models in a collection.