Blue Jay in the leaves
Acrylic on canvas, 20 x 16 inches (2009)

I must confess to have painted at least a half dozen blue jay portraits. They just seem to have that combination of class and brass that one can almost admire . . . respect even.

The "mantle" part in the title refers to the effect of the wings spread out, and the feathers fluffed in a way that makes them look larger and menacing. This is intended for interlopers and predators who might otherwise think this dorky bird is down on the ground, and would make a dandy meal . . . or is hiding something that others might want.

Hawks, owls and other groups do this too, basically telling the world to "Back off, I'm busy here".

Please do not reproduce the images in this display.
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