Satin Bowerbird

Males weave intricate display areas (called bowers) out of twigs (expensive broom sticks!), decorating their bowers and presenting his bachelor pad to the female with objects that are coloured blue.

As a result, bowerbirds are often considered to be the most advanced species of bird. A bower is an attractive 'avenue' that male bowerbirds use to entice a female. Adult male and female satin bowerbirds share the same bright lilac-blue eyes but no other similarities in colour as the male is black with a sheen of glossy purple-blue and the females are green with brown feathers.

This piece came about because my darling Aunt and Uncle from Gerringong shared the delight over a cup of tea that they have a satin bowerbird taking a liking to their backyard. Fascinated and intrigued I have used my Uncle Bob’s photos of both the male and his two females “friends”. Also the objects all around the bower were incredible. Pegs, milk tops, string even an Oreo wrapper.

I have also added native Blue flowers to Australia being - Royal Bluebells and a Native Blue Cornflower (Blue Pincushion!).

I started off thinking I would keep this piece with a white background, but a last minute (late night) decision had me added a dark charcoal background.

I’m happy as it has really given the stunning majestic bowerbird a satin glossy look.