Sharp-shinned Hawk - Colored Pencil Drawing

"Sharp-shinned Hawk" Colored Pencil

Perched patiently on a rusty fence, a sharp-shinned hawk has appeared in a flash. It’s winter in western Nebraska and a flock of sparrows has congregated in the farmyard, feeding on chicken scratch and corn.

Relying on stealth and camouflage, the sharpy prefers ambush to capture its prey. Decorated with a gold-leaf pattern, the pale chest is cloaked by dark wings that are detailed with the suggestion of broad feathers.

The raptor’s noble head is a remarkable profile distinguished by streaked spear tips and bright yellow eyes. Just a juvenile, this bird of prey is a natural born hunter that’s still trying to find its place in the forest habitat.

The unsuspecting sparrows are easy pickings for this woodland warrior. While living on earth can be a struggle for most of us, it’s not so for the sharp-shin. This confident creature seems to have the world by the tail.

Comments

  1. BarbRadJuly 7, 2016 at 1:06 AM

    I love this drawing. When did you start to draw?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Dan MillerJuly 29, 2016 at 1:03 PM

      Thank you Barbara. I've been drawing for as long as I can remember. As a kid, I liked drawing animals and sports figures but I'm currently focusing my efforts on the Colorado landscape and wildlife.

      Delete
  2. SmithAugust 24, 2017 at 12:44 AM

    Nice

    ReplyDelete

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