A studio for bird study

Tag: bird

December 9, 2011

The Short-eared Owl- Asio Flammeus

by Bryce W. Robinson

Short-eared Owl- Asio flammeus. 14x18" acrylic on stretched canvas. $300

Perhaps the reason I am so enthralled with the Short-eared Owl is that it gives the birder a glimpse into the world of the owls otherwise cloaked under the darkness of night. Aesthetically, to say this species is striking fails to describe the image that the bird holds. Asio flammeus adequately conveys the fierce image that owls are known for. This bird has character, with its dark encircled eyes and piercing yellow gaze. When found in farmlands atop fence posts surveying the fields for prey, take the time to observe the bird, for its actions are sure to awe, impress, and tickle the onlooker. One photographer, of which I am a big fan, has taken many Short-eared pictures. Among these are the best photographs of the Short-eared Owl I have ever lain eyes upon. The man’s name is Ron Dudley, and you can check out his blog here, or simply look for the Feathered Photography link on my blog roll at the bottom of the page. After painting this bird, I have resolved to find and photograph this active diurnal owl. Till then enjoy the image I have created, and make an effort to get to know this incredible creature.

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November 22, 2011

White-crowned Sparrow- An Identification Difficulty

by Bryce W. Robinson

As a raptor enthusiast, I know the challenge juvenile and immature birds can present when grasping for identification. Sparrows are a vastly diverse group, with multiple similar looking species. This coupled with the variation of juvenile and immature plumage has presented quite the challenge in learning field identification for these birds. I am currently on location in south central Utah conducting winter raptor surveys, and have seen a fair number of sparrow species in this high desert landscape. I was able to catch this photograph that displays an immature bird that may stump the beginning birder.

This is an immature White-crowned Sparrow ( Zonotrichia leucophrys). For identification, note the buff cheek. Also, note the prominent wing bars and overall fresh appearance to the bird. I believe the White-crowned Sparrow has a complex alternate molt strategy, so this bird has gone through a pre-formative molt transitioning from juvenal plumage into this immature “first winter” formative plumage. In spring it will transition into breeding or alternate plumage when it undergoes a pre-alternate molt.

As I am currently conducting winter surveys for raptors, I have gathered quite a few wonderful pictures and stories I am excited to share. I am working on learning aging of Golden Eagles, and will soon share some photos of a few birds, and my ideas as to their age. I saw a Harlan’s Hawk today, and will return to the area tomorrow with hopes of photographing the striking creature. With luck, I will have something to share.

Till then, enjoy life.

B William

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November 9, 2011

Barn Owl- Tyto alba

by Bryce W. Robinson

Barn Owl- Tyto alba. 16x20" acrylic on stretched canvas. $400

Of any bird, the Barn Owl carries the most mysticism in its ghostly glare. As it flies through the air, it resemble a specter floating through the sky hunting for what it desires. Its mystic nature is also matched with an elegant aura of regality. This creature is certainly stunning.

The last time I met the gaze of the Barn Owl was along the Jordan River, in a grove of tall cottonwoods. I was birding a series of shallow ponds, seeing a number of Avocets, Killdeer, Mallards, and many other typical wetland inhabitants. As I stalked a group of Avocets, I made my way around the base of a large tree. With my senses tuned to the slightest movement, it still seemed spectacular that I noticed a large figure silently take to the sky directly above my head. I was ecstatic as I watched the retreat of a Barn Owl into a cottonwood grove some 50 yards away. I could not see where the bird had settled, so I scanned the trees in hopes of discovering the timid owl. Through the lens of my binoculars, my eyes came to a deep and dark marbled glare. The bird, hidden in the trees, far from me, was still watching my movement. This predator knew my intentions, and was certain to watch until I had gone. What an intelligent creature. After minutes in a lockdown stare, I continued about my business to leave the owl in peace. How I respect Tyto alba, the Barn Owl.

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