Bbk0500
14 creative works found
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12×18 colored pencil on “Artagain” paper (a recycled paper that has a marvelously smooth surface – just perfect for colored pencil work) Original unavailable. / White tigers were once the “pets” of various Rajahs in India. Most of the white tigers that reside in this country right now can trace their line back to those cats. On the other hand, this white tiger lives at the Cincinnati Zoo. / I started doing wildlife around the mid 70’s and found that I had a definite affinity for the predators. There is something about their power and beauty that makes me pick up a brush, pencil or whatever to try and capture it and share it with the world. Complete 2004
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12×18 colored pencil on “Artagain” paper. Original is available. / Cleveland Zoo, in the middle of February, is not known for having wonderful weather. On this particular day, the sun was out and it was absolutely beautiful. When I came upon the lion enclosure, he was in the perfect position, with his head up.. towards the sun. Once my camera was in the right position.. he looked over at me and I got a lot of good shots. He definitely went to “pose” school and it paid off that day. / There was something about him that just said I had to do this piece.. Complete 2004
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9×12 watercolor enchance colored pencil. Part of a series. The Brabant, also known as the Belgian Heavy Draft , takes its name from one of the breed’s principal breeding areas. Although no longer well-known outside its native country, it is one of the most important heavy horse breeds, and has a strong following in the USA. / The breed is very old and is thought to descend directly from the Forest or Diluvial horse. Horses like this were known to the Romans, and from the 11th to the 16th centuries, heavy warhorses were produced in Brabant and Flanders. Complete 2006
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18×24 graphite on bristol. Original available. Presently 527 views The Chinese Crested Dog is a smaller (10-13 lbs) breed of dog known for its unusual appearance and entertaining personality. It is a member of the toy dog group. Two types can be born in the same litter; the Hairless and the Powderpuff. Appearance / At first glance, the “Hairless” and “Powderpuff” varieties of Chinese Crested Dogs appear to be two different breeds, but hairlessness is a dominant trait within a single breed. The Hairless has soft, humanlike skin, as well as tufts of fur on its paws (“socks”) and tail (“plume”) and long, flowing hair on its head (“crest”). In addition to being a dominant gene, the “hairless” gene is lethal when homozygous. All living hairless Cresteds are therefore heterozygous for this trait. / The Hairless variety can vary in amount of body hair. Fur on the muzzle, known as a beard, is not uncommon. A true Hairless often does not have as much furnishings (hair on the head, tail, and paws). The difference between a very hairy Hairless and a Powderpuff is that the Hairless has a single coat, often with hairless parts on the body, while the Powderpuff has a thick double coat. The skin of the Hairless comes in a variety of colors, ranging from a pale flesh to black. Hairless cresteds often lack a full set of teeth, but this is not considered a fault. / The look of the Powderpuff varies according to how it is groomed. When its fur is completely grown out on its face, it strongly resembles a terrier; however, the Powderpuff is usually shaved around the snout as a standard cut. Its fur is incredibly soft. Due to its coat type, both Powderpuff and Hairless are considered good pets for allergy sufferers. / The amount of bodyhair on the hairless variety varies quite extensively, from the true hairless which has very little or no bodyhair and furnishings, to what is called a hairy hairless, which if left ungroomed can grow a nearly full coat of hair. These hairy hairless are not a mix between powederpuffs and hairless Chinese Cresteds though, but is merely a result of the varying expression of the hairless gene, which the powderpuff does not have at all. Temperament / Chinese Cresteds tend to be affectionate, energetic and playful. They are considered great family pets, with endearing personalities. Some are known “singers” or “screechers” while others are known to “smile.” They are generally happy lap-dogs with candid personalities and usually aren’t the grumpy type but some males can become a tad bit aggressive as they age. In addition, Chinese Cresteds do not tend to be a “one-person” dog, spotting one particular member of the family as their “owner” seeing as how many of the Chinese cresteds are happy with anyone. Though most cresteds are like that sometimes they will choose to be attached to certain people. Often, this person is the one who gives the dog the most safe and secure feeling, and the dog would clearly show its affection towards him/her above others in the family. Grooming / Grooming of the Crested is work for both varieties. The Puffs have a very soft and fine double-coat that requires full brushing every other day to avoid matting. Although a Puff’s coat does not continuously grow like that of some other breeds, it can be quite long at full length and some owners choose to put their Puffs into a “pony cut.” This lower-maintenance option keeps the body hair and facial hair short, leaving the crest, feathers, and tail plume at full length. Maintenance of the Hairless variety’s skin is similar to maintaining human skin – and as such it can be susceptible to acne, dryness, and sunburn. A Hairless should be bathed at least 2 times per week to avoid acne and other skin conditions(some dogs shower with their owners every day). Hypoallergenic or mildly perfumed moisturizing cream can keep the skin from becoming too dry when applied every other day or after bathing. Burning can occur in regions that lend themselves to strong UV-rays, especially in lighter-skinned dogs. Many owners apply baby sunscreen to their pets before spending time in strong sun. / Unless the dog is a “True” Hairless (one with virtually no hair growth on non-extremities), trimming and/or shaving must be performed to remove stubble growth. Many owners use a clipper for the face and ears and to remove any longer growth that was allowed to occur, and then use a variety of methods to achieve complete hair removal of non-extremities. Commonly used methods include a man’s razor and hypoallergenic shaving cream, waxing, and electric razors. Some people have had success with hair removal cream, although one should be sure to apply an amount to a small test area to be sure no adverse reaction occurs. / The Chinese Crested is further distinguished by its “hare foot,” (having more elongated toes) as opposed to the “cat foot” common to most other dogs. Because of this the quicks of Cresteds run deeper into their nails, so care must be taken not to trim the nails too short to avoid pain and bleeding. Health / Due to the relative rarity of the Chinese Crested Dog, and generally speaking, this breed has not been ill-bred enough to develop many congenital diseases found in more popular Toy Breeds. There are, however, some lines prone to the conditions below. / Cresteds have what is called a “primitive mouth.” This means that most of their teeth are pointy like their canines. Hairless varieties of the Cresteds can be prone to poor dentition when they come from a line that was bred Hairless to Hairless for multiple generations. Poor dentition may include missing or crowded teeth and teeth prone to decay when not properly cared for. Some breeders advise new owners not to give their puppies hard toys to chew on lest the pups lose their teeth. This problem is mostly avoided in lines that do not feature multiple pairings of Hairless to Hairless parents. Most dogs of the Puff variety have few, if any, dental defects. / Eyes can be a major concern within the breed, having at least two forms of progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) which can eventually lead to blindness. Breeders concerned about the health of the breed genetically test and annually certify their stock. Many register their stock’s certifications with the Canine Eye Registry Foundation (CERF). / As with all other Toy Breeds, the Cresteds can be prone to patellar luxation. This inheritable condition is caused by shallow knee joints (stifles) and results in kneecaps that pop out of place. Its onset is often at a young age, and can cause temporary to permanent lameness based on the severity. Breeders concerned about the health of the breed have their stock certified free of patellar luxation and registered with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) / Some Crested dogs are prone to allergies, especially if care is not taken with breeding. Dietary allergies seem to be most common in Cresteds fed a diet that is heavily composed of wheat, corn, or soy products. / Many allergic reactions of the skin of Hairless Cresteds are caused by topical products containing lanolin (wool fat) and other sheep wool products. Some other allergies peculiar to Cresteds include Aloe vera gel and strong fragrances contained in skin care products. / The lifespan of a Chinese Crested Dog can be quite impressive. Many well-cared-for and healthily-bred Cresteds live to see 15 years or more. History / Though possibly associated with China since the 13th century, some believe the Hairless mutation originated in Africa, and others believe it may be a cross of the Chihuahua and Mexican Hairless Dog, which it resembles. It is sometimes said that this breed (among others, such as the Rhodesian Ridgeback) belongs to a different species from most dogs, namely Canis africanus; but it is not firmly established either that such a species exists or that the Chinese Crested originated in Africa. It is also possible that this dog originated from two breeds of dogs, one coming from Africa, one from China. It is now believed that the dog has no correlation or genetic relation to the Mexican Hairless dog. It is more closely related to the Basenji. Recent DNA has established that the dog is of African origin and shares genes with the Basenji. The Peruvian or Mexican hairless has no connection to the Chinese crested. / Although there is an anecdotal history of hairless dogs in many seaports (apart from the hairlessness, it is unclear how closely these dogs resemble the modern Chinese Crested), European visitors in the 1700s remarked in particular on hairless dogs in Chinese port cities, as well as dogs owned by Chinese sailors plying the African trade route. Paintings of the breed (and later, photographs) reached Europe in the 1800s. / Early Chinese Cresteds may have been valued as ratters (ratcatchers), both on ships and in agricultural communities, though such traits are rarely evident in the breed today. The breed has also been called the Chinese Edible Dog, the Chinese Hairless Dog, the Chinese Ship Dog, the Chinese Royal Dog. / The Chinese Crested was officially recognised by the FCI in 1987,in the UK Kennel Club in 1981 and by the American Kennel Club in 1991. The USA parent club is the American Chinese Crested Club. The winner of the 2007 World’s Ugliest Dog Contest held at the Sonoma-Marin county fair in California was a Chinese Crested-Chihuahua mixed breed dog named Elwood. The winner of the 2006 competition was a Chinese Crested named Archie. Completed 2005
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9×12 watercolor enhanced colored pencil / The modern Andalusian is the descendant of the Spanish Horse which, along with the Arabian and the Barb, has exerted the greatest influence on the world horse population. Until the 19th century, the Spanish Horse was the first horse of Europe, and the one on which the classical equitation of the Renaissance schools was based. Complete 2006
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12×19 Graphite and white on grey canson paper. Original available. The French Bulldog is a dog breed that originated from a group of English bulldog fanciers who were not interested in the dog-fighting realm. The English artisans, particularly lacemakers, breed a small bulldog that would weigh at least 16 lbs but no more than 28 lbs. As the Industrial Revolution grew in England, the lacemakers and other artisans took their skills and small dogs to France where they could continue to ply their trade. The small bulldog earned quite a following in France and by the late 1800s they were known as French Bulldogs. When wealthy Americans traveled to Paris they were very taken with the little Frenchie and imported them to the United States. The breed was first exhibited at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show in 1896. Appearance / French Bulldogs are a compact, muscular dog with a smooth coat, snub nose and solid bone. Their physical appearance is characterized by naturally occurring ‘bat ears’ that are wide at the base and rounded on the top. Their tails are naturally short, not cropped, straight or screwed but not curly. Under the American Kennel Club and Canadian Kennel Club standards, weight is not to exceed 28 pounds (13 kg). In general, bitches range in weight between 16 and 24 pounds, with dogs between 20 and 28 pounds. The FCI does not set a hard and fast weight limit, simply stating ‘The weight must not be below 8 kg nor over 14 kg for a bulldog in good condition, size being in proportion with the weight’ Temperament / The French Bulldog is a gentle breed that typically has a happy-go-lucky attitude. Like many other companion dog breeds they require close contact with humans. They have fairly minimal exercise needs, but do require at least regular daily walks. Their calm nature makes them excellent choices for apartment dwellers, as does their usually sensible attitude towards barking. As flat faced breed, it is essential that owners understand that French Bulldogs cannot live outdoors. Their bulk and their compromised breathing system makes it impossible for them to regulate their temperature efficiently. In addition, frenchies are top heavy and therefore have a difficult time swimming. Be cautious when exercising your Frenchie during hot or humid weather, as well. French Bulldogs can play too roughly for some smaller children, and should be monitored at all times during play. As well, children should be cautioned not to pick French Bulldogs up, as their size can mask how truly heavy they actually are. French Bulldogs are essentially a bull and terrier breed, and as such, it is not surprising to learn that canine aggression can sometimes occur. Generally, this takes the form of same sex aggression, with the bitches being the most culpable in this respect. Owners considering adding a second dog to their household are usually cautioned to choose one of the opposite sex. Spaying or neutering can do much to curb aggressive tendencies before they begin. The French Bulldog energy level can range from hyperactive and energetic to relaxed and laid back. French Bulldogs can be stubborn, and early and consistent obedience training is highly recommended. French Bulldog have competed successfully in numerous competitive dog sports, including dog agility, obedience, rally obedience, weight pulling and even Schutzhund. Obtaining a Canine Good Citizen certification on your French Bulldog is easy, and an excellent way of ensuring they have a solid set of basic manners. Many French Bulldogs excel at doing therapy dog work, with most seeming to truly enjoy the attention and interaction with both children and the elderly. In general, Frenchies are amiable, good natured, playful dogs, and make excellent companions for families, single persons and the elderly. (information from Wikipedia) Complete 2004
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10×14 watercolor enhanced colored pencil. As of 12-10-09, 500 views. Original available. The polar bear (Ursus maritimus) is a bear native to the Arctic. Polar bears and Kodiak bears are the world’s largest land carnivores, with most adult males weighing 300-600 kg (660-1320 lb); adult females are about half the size of males. Its fur is hollow and translucent, but usually appears as white or cream colored, thus providing the animal with effective camouflage. Its skin is actually black in color. Its thick blubber and fur insulate it against the cold. The bear has a short tail and small ears that help reduce heat loss, as well as a relatively small head and long, tapered body to streamline it for swimming. A semi-aquatic marine mammal, the polar bear has adapted for life on a combination of land, sea, and ice, and is the apex predator within its range. It feeds mainly on seals, young walruses, and whales, although it will eat anything it can kill. It is the bear species most likely to prey on humans. The polar bear is a vulnerable species at high risk of extinction. Scientists and climatologists believe that the projected decreases in the polar sea ice due to global warming will reduce their population by two thirds by mid-century. Local long-term studies show that 7 out of 19 subpopulations are declining or already severely reduced. In the USA, the Center for Biological Diversity petitioned to up-list the legal conservation status of polar bears to threatened species in 2005. This petition is still under review. / Physical description / Size and weight / Polar bears rank with the Kodiak bear as among the largest living land carnivores, and male polar bears may weigh twice as much as a Siberian tiger. Most adult males weigh 300–600 kg (660–1320 lb) and measure 2.4–3.0 m (7.9–10.0 ft) in length. When standing upright, an adult male can stand up to 3.35 m (11.5 ft). That is about as tall as an elephant. Adult females are roughly half the size of males and normally weigh 150–300 kg (330–660 lb), measuring 1.9–2.1 m (6.25–7 ft). The great difference in body size makes the polar bear the second most sexually dimorphic of mammals, following the eared seals.[10] At birth, cubs weigh only 600–700 g or about a pound and a half. The largest polar bear on record was a huge male, allegedly weighing 1002 kg (2200 lb) shot at Kotzebue Sound in northwestern Alaska in 1960. Fur and skin / A Polar Bear resting.A polar bear’s fur is white (individual hairs are translucent, like the water droplets that make up a cloud) and provides good camouflage and insulation. It may yellow with age. Stiff hairs on the pads of its paws provide insulation and traction on the ice. Polar bears gradually molt their hair from May to August; however, unlike other Arctic mammals, polar bears do not shed their coat for a darker shade to camouflage themselves in the summer habitat. It was once conjectured that the hollow guard hairs of a polar bear coat acted as fiber-optic tubes to conduct light to its black skin, where it could be absorbed – a theory disproved by recent studies. The thick undercoat does, however, insulate the bears: they overheat at temperatures above 10 °C (50 °F), and are nearly invisible under infrared photography; only their breath and muzzles can be easily seen.[14] When kept in captivity in warm, humid conditions, it is not unknown for the fur to turn a pale shade of green. This is due to algae growing inside the guard hairs — in unusually warm conditions, the hollow tubes provide an excellent home for algae. Whilst the algae is harmless to the bears, it is often a worry to the zoos housing them, and affected animals are sometimes washed in a salt solution, or mild peroxide bleach to make the fur white again. The guard hair is 5-15 cm over most of the body of polar bears. However, in the forelegs, males have significantly longer, increasing in length until 14 years of age. The ornamental foreleg hair is suggested as a form of an attractive trait for females, likened to the lion mane. (information from Wikipedia) Complete 2007
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9×12 watercolor enhanced colored pencil. Original unavailable. / This one was close to the end of the run but still within the “learning” curve. The spotted gene in horses is as old as the equine race, but the credit for the development of a distinctive spotted breed, the Appaloosa, has to be given to the Nez Perce Indians of North America who lived in the Pacific Northwest. / The breed developed in the 18th century, and was founded on the Spanish stock brought to the Americas, which included a number of spotted strains. Complete 2007
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12×19 grey paper, graphite with white charcoal. Original unavailable. The Bluetick Coonhound is a breed of dog. It is a type of coonhound that is typically bred in the southern United States. / History / The Bluetick Coonhound, which probably originated in Louisiana, is thought to be bred from English foxhounds, cur dogs, and the Bleu Gascogne French hound. Originally, Bluetick Coonhounds were registered in the United Kennel Club under the English Foxhound and Coonhound, but were recognized by the club as a separate breed in 1946. Bluetick Coonhounds are also recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council and the New Zealand Kennel Club. Breeders have started the process of obtaining recognition from the American Kennel Club. The American Blue Gascon is a subgroup of bluetick coonhounds that is larger, heavier, and more houndy looking than the standard bluetick. American Blue Gascons are often referred to as “old-fashioned” blueticks. / Appearance / The overall body style of the Bluetick Coonhound should be muscular and speedy, not chunky or clumsily built. The head should be carried well up and the tail carried over the back, without signs of fear or nervousness. The Bluetick coat should be moderately coarse and glossy. The Bluetick Coonhound gets its “blue” coloring from black/white mottling which gives the impression of a navy blue color. This mottling covers the body and can be interspersed with variously-shaped black spots on the back, ears and sides. Preference runs to more blue than black on the body. Black should predominate on the head and ears. Bluetick Coonhounds should have tan dots over the eyes and on the cheeks with dark red ticking on the feet and lower legs below the body line, on the chest, and below the tail. Red can be eliminated, as well as the tan head coloring. Blue mottling on the body is preferred to lighter ticking. Blue ticking should be predominant over white in the body coat. Off colors are not allowed, but almost solid black with just some ticking on the feet and chest is permitted. The Bluetick Coonhound has a broad head with low set ears which reach at least to the nose. The muzzle should be square, not narrow or snipey, and slightly shorter than the depth of skull. There should be a prominent stop, and the skull should be slightly domed. The lips and flews should well cover the lower jaw. The blueticks eyes should be large and set wide apart. Coloring light brown to dark brown, with a close fitting eylid. The neck of the Bluetick should be arched and muscular, of moderate length and without excessive dewflap. Male coonhounds should be 22 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh approximately 55 to 80 pounds. Females are considerably smaller, being 21 to 25 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 45 to 65 pounds. The body should be higher at the shoulder than the hips, and when measured from the withers to the base of tail it should be slightly longer than tall. Blueticks (as they are known by fanciers) should have a deep chest with well sprung ribs, curving into the belly rather than having an extreme tucked up look. Feet should be cat-like, rounded with well-arched toes. Their paws are larger than nearly all other breeds of dogs. Rear legs should have a moderate bend at the hocks. All legs should be straight when viewed from the front or rear. Gascon blues are larger than standard blueticks, with males a minimum of 27 inches and a maximum of 30 inches. See the American Blue Gascon Coonhound Association’s breed standard: / Temperament / Bluetick hounds are a friendly breed, but new owners should be warned they can be particularly challenging to train. They are, like their hound counterparts, very intelligent breeds, with an uncanny knack for problem-solving. This can be particularly problematic if they are confined to a household or to a small yard, and one should give this breed plenty of space. Once trained, the breed is very mindful of its owner. Breed will drool occasionally and salivate heavily when exposed to “human” foods. They are very loud, constant, and howling barkers. They are bred to be working hunting dogs and can be a challenge to pet owners. In normal conditions the dog is excellent around families and children. Often mistaken for aggressiveness, the breed will “greet” strangers with its signature howl and will literally “sniff” the subject until satisfied. Blueticks are driven by their strong sense of smell and make excellent hunting/tracking dogs. (information from Wikipedia) Complete 2004
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19×25 colored pencil. Original available. Appearance / The bulldog is a stocky breed, with a compact body and short, sturdy limbs. Its shape results in a peculiarly unique gait. Bulldogs are known for their short muzzles and the saggy skin on their faces, creating the apparent “frown” that has become a trademark of the breed. Bulldogs come in a variety of colours and ideally have a smooth, short coat. The only disqualifier for the breed in the show ring is a liver colored nose, however a black-coated Bulldog is also not preferred. In the US, the size of a typical mature male is about 50 pounds; that for mature females is about 40 pounds. In the United Kingdom, the breed standard is 55 pounds for a male and 50 pounds for a female. / Temperament and characteristics / The temperament of the Bulldog is generally docile, friendly and gregarious but are known to be fiercely loyal. Breeders have worked to breed aggression out of the breed, and as such the dog is known to be of generally good temperament. Bulldogs can be so attached to home and family that they will not venture out of the yard without a human companion. Due to their friendly nature bulldogs are known for getting along well with children, other breeds of dog and any house-broken pet in general. A bulldog is suitable for houses as well as apartments due to their size and comparative lack of energy, but puppies may be destructive until they reach maturity. / Health / The bulldog is prone to health issues. Breathing issues can be prevalent in the breed due to the shape of the lower jaw and the shortness of muzzle – bulldogs are known to snore. In the United Kingdom, some dogs can be prone to interstitial cysts, that is cysts which form between the toes. These cause the dog some discomfort, though they are treatable either by vet or an experienced owner. Other problems can include cherry eye, certain allergies and amongst older bulldogs, hip issues. Because of the large heads in proportion to body size, puppies are frequently delivered by Caesarean section as they can get stuck in the birth canal during natural birth, however it is not uncommon for a bulldog bitch to whelp naturally and successfully. Bulldogs require daily cleaning of their face folds to avoid unwanted infections caused by moisture accumulation. Daily teeth brushing with a regular human soft toothbrush using a vet approved toothpaste is also recommended. Like all dogs, Bulldogs require daily exercise. If not properly exercised the bulldog could gain weight, which could cause health problems relating to the lungs and heart. Bulldogs are extremely sensitive to heat and cold and great care should be given to the dog during overly warm periods. During these times, ensure the dog has plenty of shade, water and should be ideally kept out of standing heat. As the breed has developed, the tail in some dogs can be tight to the body and can cause infection if not treated or cleaned underneath regularly. complete 2000
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10×14 watercolor enhanced colored pencil on “satin” Arches watercolor paper (chosen because of the smooth surface so that the pencils would work better). Original unavailable. Gorillas, the largest of the living primates, are ground-dwelling omnivores that inhabit the forests of Africa. Gorillas are divided into two species and (still under debate as of 2007) either four or five subspecies. Its DNA is 97%–98% identical to that of a human, and are the next closest living relatives to humans after the two chimpanzee species. Name / The American physician and missionary Thomas Staughton Savage first described the Western Gorilla (he called it Troglodytes gorilla) in 1847 from specimens obtained in Liberia. The name was derived from the Greek word Gorillai (a “tribe of hairy women”) described by Hanno the Navigator, a Carthaginian navigator and possible visitor (circa 480 BC) to the area that later became Sierra Leone. Adult males range in height from 165-175 cm (5 ft 5 in – 5 ft 9 in), and in weight from 140–200 kg (310–440 lb). Adult females are often half the size of a silverback, averaging about 140 cm (4 ft 7 in) tall and 100 kg (220 lb). Occasionally, a silverback of over 183 cm (6 ft) and 225 kg (500 lb) has been recorded in the wild. However, obese gorillas in captivity have reached a weight of 270 kg (600 lb). Gorillas have a facial structure which is described as mandibular prognathism, that is, their mandible protrudes farther out than the maxilla. There are typically 3 to 4 years between births. Infants stay with their mothers for 3–4 years. Females mature at 10–12 years (earlier in captivity); males at 11–13 years. Lifespan is between 30–50 years. The Philadelphia Zoo’s Massa set the longevity record of 54 years at the time of his death. Gorillas are omnivores, eating fruits, leaves, shoots, and sometimes insects which make up only 1–2% of their diet. Almost all gorillas share the same blood type (B) and, like humans, have individual finger prints. Classification / Western Lowland Gorilla / Until recently there were considered to be three gorilla species: the Western Lowland Gorilla, the Eastern Lowland Gorilla and the Mountain Gorilla. There is now agreement that are two species with two subspecies each. More recently it has been claimed that a third subspecies exists in one of the species. Primatologists continue to explore the relationships between various gorilla populations. The species and subspecies listed here are the ones most scientists agree upon. Genus Gorilla / Western Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla) / Western Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) / Cross River Gorilla (Gorilla gorilla diehli) / Eastern Gorilla (Gorilla beringei) / Mountain Gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) / Eastern Lowland Gorilla (Gorilla beringei graueri) The proposed third subspecies of Gorilla beringei, which has not yet received a full Latin designation, is the Bwindi population of the Mountain Gorilla, sometimes called the Bwindi Gorilla. Endangerment / Both species of gorilla are endangered, and have been subject to intense poaching for a long time. Threats to gorilla survival include habitat destruction and the bushmeat trade. In 2004 a population of several hundred gorillas in the Odzala National Park, Republic of Congo was essentially wiped out by the Ebola virus. A 2006 study published in Science concluded that more than 5,000 gorillas may have died in recent outbreaks of the Ebola virus in central Africa. The researchers indicated that in conjunction with commercial hunting of these apes creates “a recipe for rapid ecological extinction”. Completed 2008
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19×25 colored pencil. Original available. A Bichon Frisé (French, literally meaning Curly lap dog; often spelled Bichon Frise in English) is a small breed of dog. They are popular pets especially to girls, similar to but larger than the Maltese. They are very intelligent and generally have happy dispositions. They are a non-shedding breed that requires regular grooming. / Appearance / Color – Almost every piece of fur is white, sometimes with cream, apricot or buff shadings, usually around the ears. At least 90% must be white in a purebred Bichon for show. At least 50% must be white in a Bichon puppy for show. Color fades during the first year of life. During this time the coat also changes from puppy fluff to frisé. Face – Expression should be alert, soft, inquisitive. The eyes are usually very dark, either black or dark brown. The skin surrounding the eye is also very dark, this is called a “halo” and is looked for in purebred puppies and dogs. The nose and lips are always dark. The ears are drop and covered in long, feathery fur. A characteristic Bichon Frisé “triangle” is formed by the black eyes and the nose, which are distinctly set of in contrast to the white fur. Coat – The undercoat is soft and dense while the outercoat is curly, giving it a powderpuff look. The coat feels thick and should spring back if touched. The coat may feel velvety if is groomed correctly. The fur makes this particular dog look like a marshmallow puff dog. Muscle-The muscle tone should be of exceptional quality, especially the lower thighs and buttocks area. / Temperament / The well-bred Bichon Frisé is feisty, sensitive, playful, and affectionate. A cheerful attitude is a prominent personality trait. Most Bichons enjoy socializing with people and most dogs. Bichons may be relatively stubborn, but are also said to be patient. They may tend to nip gently in play. They may have sudden bursts of energy resulting in the “blitz” or “buzz”, where they race around in circles. They are great around children and also good watch dogs. They tend to very friendly towards people even outside the intimidate family. / Special Considerations / Because Bichons do not shed, they are suitable for many people with allergies, however human sensitivity to dog fur varies considerably. People with dog allergies should first visit with a Bichon to test their individual reaction before committing to ownership. Like most non-shedding dogs, Bichons are high-maintenance. They require regular grooming, which can be expensive and/or time-consuming. (information from Wikipedia) Complete 2001
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9×12 watercolor enhanced colored pencil. Original unavailable. The ancestors of the modern donkey are the Nubian (a medium sized donkey with a grey and white coat, stripes on back and legs and a tall, upright mane with a black tip) and Somalian subspecies of African wild ass. The African Wild Ass was domesticated around 4,000 B.C. The donkey became an important pack animal for people living in the Egyptian and Nubian regions as they can easily carry 20% to 30% of their own body weight and can also be used as a farming and dairy animal. By 1800 B.C., the ass had reached the Middle East where the trading city of Damascus was referred to as the “City of Asses” in cuneiform texts. Syria produced at least three breeds of donkeys, including a saddle breed with a graceful, easy gait. These were favored by women. For the Greeks, the donkey was associated with the Syrian god of wine, Dionysus. The Disney film Fantasia (1940) features a Dionysian character on a donkey. The Romans also valued the ass and would use it as a sacrificial animal. In 1495, the ass first appeared in the New World. The four males and two females brought by Christopher Columbus gave birth to the mules which the Conquistadors rode as they explored the Americas. Shortly after America won her independence, President George Washington imported the first mammoth jackstock into the country. Because the Jack donkeys in the New World lacked the size and strength he required to produce quality work mules, he imported donkeys from Spain and France, some standing over 1.63 m tall. One of the donkeys Washington received from the Marquis de Lafayette named “Knight of Malta” stood only 1.43 m and was regarded as a great disappointment. Viewing this donkey as unfit for producing mules, Washington instead bred Knight of Malta to his Jennets and, in doing so, created an American line of Mammoth Jackstock. Despite these early appearances of donkeys in America, the donkey did not find widespread favor in America until the miners and gold prospectors of the 1800s. Miners preferred this animal due to its ability to carry tools, supplies, and ore. Their sociable disposition and fondness for human companionship allowed the miners to lead their donkeys without ropes. They simply followed behind their master. With the introduction of the steam train, these donkeys lost their jobs and many were turned loose into the American deserts. Descendants of these donkeys can still be seen roaming the Southwest in herds to this day. By the early 20th century, donkeys began to be kept as pets in the United States and other wealthier nations, while remaining an important work animal in many poorer nations. The donkey as a pet is best portrayed by the appearance of the miniature donkey in 1929. Robert Green imported miniature donkeys to the United States and was a lifetime advocate of the breed. Mr. Green is perhaps best quoted when he said “Miniature Donkeys possess the affectionate nature of a Newfoundland, the resignation of a cow, the durability of a mule, the courage of a tiger, and the intellectual capability only slightly inferior to man’s.” Standing only 32-40 inches, many families recognized the potential of miniature donkeys as pets and companions for their children. Although the donkey fell from public notice and became viewed as a comical, stubborn beast which was considered “cute” at best, the donkey has recently regained some popularity in North America as a mount, for pulling wagons, and even as a guard animal. Some standard species are ideal for guarding herds of sheep against predators since most donkeys have a natural aversion to canines and will keep them away from the herd. (information from Wikipedia) Complete 2007
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15×20 graphite on bristol board. Original available. Every once in a while, I just need to get back to basics and do some pencil work. Complete 2004
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