"Sentinel II" - Penaris Neighborhood, Costa Rica

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Another raucous Great-tailed Grackle. Their “sound” can stop you in your tracks. On a walk through the jungle this summer one captured our attention with a clear bell-like note. On my morning walks another captivates me continuously by carrying on a throaty dialog punctuated by screeches and bell tones. I keep thinking if I just listen more closely, I'll understand its Spanish.

#49   5" x 7"  acrylic/mixed media on archival Masonite board     $50

"Sentinel I" - Penaris Neighborhood, Costa Rica

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There aren't any crows in Costa Rica. Instead, there are birds that occupy similar niches (Brown Jays and Great-tailed Grackles). The Great-tailed Grackle has a variety of very loud noises, squeakes, calls that they make. This large, noisy bird has become amazingly adapted to living with people. A scavenger and opportunist in urban environments they seem to be right at home as they forage on city streets. - Information from "Costa Rica Living and Birding" by Pat O'Donnell

#48   5" x 7" acrylic/mixed media on archival Masonite board     $50

"Green Pear" - Curridabat, Costa Rica

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The universal appeal of a pear is no less appealing in Costa Rica than elsewhere. I have seen native pears to Central America. They are small and green and "appear" to be hard. They have been bypassed for the larger imported variety that I know promises a hand-held physical delight and a sweet-tasting oral delight.

#47  5" x 7" acrylic on archival Masonite board     $50