Chuck Ripper: Jabiru Standing on a Tree Branch

Artist: Chuck Ripper
1929 -
Nationality: American
Artwork Year: 1993
Image Size: 12.25 by 14.5 inches
Overall Size: 14.75 by 17.75 inches
Medium: Gouche Water Color on Masonite

Few endangered creatures have as many obstacles to overcome as the Jabiru. For this magnificent bird is threatened both by the loss of the wetlands it calls home and by hunters who seek young birds as gourmet meals. Throughout Central and South America, habitat destruction and human interference have taken their toll on this once-abundant stork. Cultivation and tree cutting, for example, have reduced their population in Central America to fewer than 250. While greater numbers survive in the flood plains of Venezuela, Columbia, Brazil and Argentina, the birds face another threat in South America. Hunters, particularly in Suriname and the Amazon region, relish the Jabiru's nestlings, considering them especially good eating. A symbol for wetlands conservation in much of Central America, the Jabiru is a sizable waterbird distinguished by its white wings and tail, and its black head and legs. A reddish area on its neck expands when the bird is excited, hence the South American Indian word yabiru, meaning "blown out with the wind," gives this handsome bird its name. One of the world's largest storks, its wingspan is more than six feet. Unfortunately, their size and preference for open terrain make these birds easy targets for hunters and place them at risk for extinction.

This painting originally appeared on the Fleetwood® First Day Cover of the United Nations Endangered Species Series F.s. 0,80 Jabiru stamp issued March 18, 1994.

Artwork Copyright © 1993 Unicover Corporation. All Rights Reserved under United States and international copyright laws. You may not reproduce, distribute, transmit, or otherwise exploit the Artwork in any way. Images of the Artwork may be watermarked and/or digitally watermarked. Any sale of the physical original does not include or convey the Copyright or any right comprised in the copyright.

Our Stock Number (SKU): XB14624

US$ Price: $2,700.00

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