Little Screech Owl (Plate 97) - John James Audubon

A detailed ornithological study of three screech owls perched on a pine branch, originally published in The Birds of America.

This print is Plate 97 from John James Audubon's monumental publication, The Birds of America. The work depicts three screech owls perched upon a pine branch, rendered with the scientific precision and artistic flair that defined Audubon's career. Audubon, a French-American ornithologist and painter, sought to document every bird species in North America in their natural habitat, often using life-sized models to achieve accurate proportions.

The composition displays the owls in various postures, allowing the viewer to observe both the dorsal and ventral plumage patterns. The central owl, shown with wings partially extended, reveals the barred markings on the underside of its feathers, while the other two specimens demonstrate the variations in colouration common to the species. The pine needles and cones are executed with fine lines, providing a textured backdrop that does not distract from the primary subjects. The engraving process, combined with hand-applied colour, creates a depth of tone that remains clear even after nearly two centuries.

Audubon's approach differed from his contemporaries, who often depicted birds in static, profile views. By placing his subjects in active, naturalistic poses, he brought a sense of life to the scientific record. This print reflects the collaborative effort between Audubon and his engraver, Robert Havell Jr., who translated the original watercolours into the copper plates required for printing. The result is a balance of anatomical accuracy and aesthetic composition, typical of the high standards maintained throughout the production of The Birds of America. This piece is a fine example of nineteenth-century natural history documentation, capturing the character of the screech owl with clarity and detail.