Swallow Tailed Bee Eaters are widely distributed across Africa. In common with most of the other Bee Eater species, they nest in tunnels excavated in sandy river banks or even termite mounds. The tunnels are up to one metre deep and end in a wide nest chamber. When hunting, they perch on exposed branches, swooping down to catch bees, wasps, beetles and grasshoppers in mid-flight.

(Acknowledgement to photographer Peter McIntyre for the reference photograph.)

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!

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

Size: 430mm x 560mm