Correct Portraiture of Some Birds
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In the London (England) Field for March 10, 1927, there is an article by Mr. Frohawk on the Short-eared Owl (Asio flammmeus). Among other remarks the writer points out that this species invariably alights on the ground, never perching in trees; and that, notwithstanding, both, in pictures and in museums, the bird is frequently shown doing this.
Looking through what ornithological literature I possess, I find two books that are extensively used by bird-student beginners. In these two, also in a colored picture out of a series, the Short-eared Owl is represented perching on a tree or stump. Is this owl never known to perch on a fence post? I have seen an individual seated on a hay stack.
Recently I purchased British Birds, by Archibald Thorburn, with the author’s own beautiful illustrations. In this work the Short-eared Owl is portrayed squatting on the ground. In describing the Fulmar (Fulmarus glacicclis) the same author says: “Like most, if not all Petrels, the Fulmar appears to be unable or unwilling to stand on its feet, and rests when on the ground in a crouching attitude.” I presume that does not imply that the petrels, shearwaters, and fulmars cannot and do not walk about in the ordinary manner. But in the above-mentioned beginners’ manuals the greater number of pictures represent the birds of this group at rest in an upright posture, or even on one leg.
Eastend, Saskatchewan, May 30, 1927
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Recommended Citation
Potter, L. B.
(1927)
"Correct Portraiture of Some Birds,"
Condor: Vol. 29
:
Iss.
4
, Article 8.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/condor/vol29/iss4/8