On a recent visit to the Kruger National Park, I found myself becoming more and more captivated by sightings of birds. Despite the fact that it was during the dry winter months when the migratory birds are far away in the northern hemisphere, it felt as though I was seeing a greater diversity than on many previous occasions; rollers and sunbirds, orioles and kingfishers, barbets, owls and coucals – suddenly it felt as though there were birds everywhere. Looking back at the photographs from the trip, I have become absorbed by the structure of birds, the detail of the feathers, the shape of the bills, the configuration of the tails. As a result of these observations, I’ve now embarked on a series of bird studies – both pencil drawings and watercolours. Given the incredible variety of species in southern Africa, this could be a long journey!

One of the most beautiful birds in the world, the Lilac Breasted Roller occurs widely through East, Central and Southern Africa. They live in a range of different habitats from Kalahari sands to Acacia woodland, from riverine forests to flood plains. Predominantly insect eaters, Rollers perch on exposed branches, pouncing on their prey from above. They are monogamous, solitary nesters who become fiercely territorial during the breeding season. The Rollers get their names from their spectacular aerial displays. Climbing steeply to a height of 50 metres or more, the male birds then dive down with closed wings before abruptly opening their wings and again climbing into the air. This display is repeated several times and in the final descent the birds roll dramatically from side to side, the brilliant colours flashing in the sunlight.

A framed, original pencil drawing on Fabriano 250g Acid Free Watercolour Paper. Worldwide courier delivery is included in the price.

Size: 430mm x 560mm

(With thanks to Chris Gouws for the reference photograph.)