Don Balke (North Carolina, B. 1933) "Scarlet Tanager" Signed lower right. Original Watercolor on Illustration Board.

Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.

This painting was originally published on the Fleetwood Birds and Flowers of the Meadow and Garden Collection "Scarlet Tanager and Blue Columbine" porcelain plate. The brilliant Scarlet Tanager male enlivens the summer scenery with lush, flame red feathers perfectly accented by the sooty black of its wings and tail. These beautiful birds spend much of their time in the very tops of trees high above the forest floor. There they move freely, though rather sluggishly, in search of berries and the leaf-eating insects on which they dine. Because of their preference for lofty heights, Scarlet Tanagers are seldom seen except when lured by cool, clean water for bathing. Aside from these rare appearances on the ground, this striking bird's presence is generally marked only by its hoarse song. In fact, often the woodland hiker will hear the Scarlet Tanager before he sees it. To pinpoint its exact location, the hiker often must walk past the bird's perch, listening here and there, before finally discovering the source of the telltale rasping song. A bit husky in tone, the Scarlet Tanager's call has been described as sounding like "a robin with a sore throat." Nonetheless, it is a song which gladdens those who listen for it. Come fall, the Scarlet Tanager molts, exchanging his brilliant summer plumage for the olive-green coloring of his mate. Then it is time to join the flock as they migrate, under cover of darkness, to the warmer climates of South America. But, in spring, they will return to fill the tops of the forest foliage with color and song.

Image Size: 9.25 x 8.75 in.
Overall Size: 17.25 x 18 in.
Unframed. (B05610)

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