A flock of scholars

Scientists and creative writers are to gather on 12 March to explore the unique inspiration provided by birds in their respective fields. A Conference of Birds, organised by the University of Essex's department of literature, film and theatre studies, will hear creative writing lecturers reading from selected works by authors including John Clare, the 19th-century English poet. There will also be screenings of the Monty Python sketch Albatross and scenes from the 1926 animated silent film The Adventures of Prince Achmed (pictured). The conference will also consider an Essex-based initiative to preserve avian habitats.