Tawny Frogmouths and Linocuts

Over a week ago I went to a see a local wildlife carer release two Tawny Frogmouths from his care.

These had been young baby Tawny Frogmouths when they had been found and have been cared for until they have reached this stage and are ready to be released. There was a strong bond with this pair and so it was decided to release them together.

Of course I took hundreds of photos (ah the wonders of digital cameras!!) and I have chosen just a few to share with you.

I love the way despite the “I am not really here – you can’t see me” typical Tawny Frogmouth pose which works very well when their feathering colour blends back into a nearby tree trunk, they still take this whole stance no matter where they are. They seem to have this complete belief that if they just sit very very still no-one can see them. A bit like a child covering their eyes thinking you can no longer see them.

The above is the first Tawny to be released and wide-eyed with wonder and interest.

The second Tawny who seemed a very quiet gentle bird took longer to move out into the world – the second photo seems to indicate a bit of displeasure at his comfortable existence being disturbed – he was looking right at all of us!

Or maybe he’s just concerned…

When we left it was dusk and the pair continued to sit and wait just assessing their current and new situation.

So – what’s next on the linocut front? Well it would have to be Tawny Frogmouths!! This is the template ready for carving “Tawny Expressions” and as you can tell from the above photos these birds have the most amazing array of expressions! Only problem is that now I can see so many more designs I could add….