© 2004 Jay Jocham ...Science Art-Birds

Title: Watcher in the Wood
Species: Barred Owls (Strix varia)
Artist: Jay Jocham (for further information, click on the artist's name)
Image size: 20" x 24"
Media: acrylic on ragboard
Date: 2004
Current Location of the painting:private collection, Arkdale, WI


Barred Owls, the artist explains, exhibit a strong preference for mature mixed-wood forests--forests that are at least 80 years old. In long-term studies, biologists use this preference to assess forest quality. By relying on the presence--or absence--of these and certain other birds, they can more effectively monitor changes. Such monitoring of "indicator species" is essential to long-term forestry planning.

Joham notes: "This Barred Owl was observed early one winter morning in an oak outside the window of my Wisconsin studio. It appeared to be waiting patiently for movement beneath the snow near the base of the tree."