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!

This pencil drawing is of a juvenile Malachite Kingfisher. These Kingfishers occur across Africa but always in association with water. They feed primarily on small fish but will also take tadpoles, frogs, aquatic insects, small crustaceans and lizards. Malachite Kingfishers are monogamous and nest in burrows along river banks, the nests being excavated by both sexes. They are territorial and regularly patrol their domains, sitting on prominent branches to watch for trespassers. The male and female sing to each other in chuckling duets.

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

Size: 430mm x 560mm