California Ecosystems - Grouse in the Sagebrush (original)

Regular price $1,200.00

The sagebrushes (Artemisia sp.) that are the dominant shurbs across much of the Great Basin are an important source of food and shelter for the Greater Sage Grouse (Centrocercus urophasianus). During the late summer, Sage Grouse fatten up on insects, represented here by the Hairy Bear Scarab Beetle (Paracotalpa granicollis). During the winter, Big Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata) and other sagebrush species, are the primary source of food for the birds. Paintbrush (Castilleja chromosa), Sagebrush Lizard (Sceloporus graciosus) and White-tailed Antelope Squirrel (Ammospermophilus leucurus) also share this arid landscape. The increased frequency and intesity of wildfires, fueled by invasive non-native grasses, continues to strain the resiliency of this unique western ecosystem.

Original watercolor and ink illustration on 300 lb. hot press Arches 100% cotton watercolor paper. Framed size is 26" x 26". Framed in simple black metal frame and ready to hang.