Plate 77 Belted Kingfisher by John James Audubon Naturalism Art

Plate 77 from John James Audubon's "The Birds of America" features the Belted Kingfisher, a striking bird known for its distinctive appearance and fishing prowess. In this vividly detailed illustration, Audubon captures the bird in a moment of stillness, perched on a branch overlooking the water. The kingfisher's robust body, large head with a shaggy crest, and its signature blue-gray belt across the chest are rendered with exquisite accuracy and lifelike coloration. The background, a serene riverside scene, complements the bird's natural habitat, emphasizing Audubon’s skill in combining scientific precision with artistic beauty in his depictions of American wildlife.