Grazing sheep, flocks of birds, and mathematics are not commonly associated with each other.
But one north-east academic has carried out research into how maths can be used to understand these animal behaviours.
Francesco Ginelli, senior physics lecturer at Aberdeen University, has also looked into how the behaviour of one individual creature can trigger a response across the entire group.
Mr Ginelli will discuss his research at this year’s second Cafe Scientifique event later today.
He said: “From bird flocks to sheep grazing, social animals show remarkable ability in coordinating group activity, often giving rise to spectacular displays. I will describe how we can use maths to help us understand the complex dynamical systems.
“Cooperative behaviour in social groups is a very important issue in evolutionary biology. Our research may eventually help us to understand the behaviour of other groups of animals – including humans – in a stressful group situation.”
The event will be held at Waterstones, Union Bridge, from 7pm.
More details about the events can be found at www.engagingaberdeen.co.uk
Grazing sheep, flocks of birds and mathematics… What’s the link?
