© 2006 Gamini Ratnavira ...Science Art-Birds

Title: One Fig At A Time
Species: Great Indian Hornbills (Buceros bicornis)
Artist: Gamini Ratnavira (for further information, click on the artist's name)
Image size: 30" x 48"
Media: acrylic on canvas
Date: 2006
Collection of the artist

The artist notes: "Great Indian Hornbills, which are found in the Indian subcontinent, are at risk to hunting and habitat loss. They are hunted by trophy hunters for their casks and heads. The casks, which are valued for carving, look heavy but are actually hollow inside, and do not inhibit the birds' ability to fly. Habitat loss due to the felling of trees is critical, as the birds use the same nest site every year. If their site is felled, their ability to reproduce can be seriously threatened.

These birds mate for life. Males and females are nearly identical, but can be recognized by differences in the color of their eye ring. The eye ring of the female is flesh-colored and the eye ring of her mate is black. The challenge in creating these comical birds was in expressing their personalities as well as capturing the beauty of their environment."