What links a hen charity and dinosaurs?

Meet the new BHWT patron, Professor Ben Garrod to get the answer

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The BHWT are immensely proud to introduce our new BHWT patron, Professor Ben Garrod, who we are delighted to have on board. Ben is an author and award-winning broadcaster as well as a Professor of Evolutionary Biology and Science Engagement at the University of East Anglia. You'll have no doubt seen him on your screens on various shows such as Attenborough and the Mammoth Graveyard, The Day the Dinosaurs Died and Secrets of Bones. Prof Garrod has adopted several flocks of BHWT hens and regularly promotes us to anyone who'll listen; we’re even included in his latest Jack-Jack book which is out this month. We hope you'll enjoy this catch up with our latest member of the BHWT flock.

Q Ben, thanks so much for agreeing to an interview with us - we know you're a very busy man. First up, please tell us where your love of chickens comes from?

A Some of my very earliest memories are being out with my grandparents and visiting friends on farms. I distinctly remember being surrounded by chickens and that wonderful sense of being overwhelmed by the noise, movement and energy. On top of that, my mum read me a story before bed every night and like many of us I think, the story of Chicken Licken and that falling acorn had a special place in my heart. I thought my hen appreciation was a recent thing but you've made me realise it's been a lifelong love affair.

Q The link between dinosaurs and chickens has been well documented. Do you notice the similarities when watching your own flock?