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Black skimmer, Rynchops niger
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Black skimmer, Rynchops niger
Black skimmer, Rynchops niger (Rhynchops nigra). Handcoloured copperplate drawn and engraved by John Latham from his own A General History of Birds, Winchester, 1824
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Media ID 23187800
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Latham Niger Nigra Ornithology Skimmer Rynchops
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This exquisite hand-colored copperplate print showcases the Black Skimmer, Rynchops niger (Rhynchops nigra), a fascinating avian species found primarily in the Atlantic and Caribbean coasts of the Americas. The Black Skimmer, with its distinctive long, downturned beak, is a masterful flyer and an adept feeder. It skims the water's surface with its mouth open, using its beak to touch the water and then quickly closing it to capture prey such as shrimp and small fish. John Latham, a renowned English naturalist and ornithologist, created this work as part of his comprehensive publication, A General History of Birds, published in Winchester in 1824. Latham's dedication to accurate representation is evident in the intricate details of the Black Skimmer's plumage, beak, and other distinct features. The Black Skimmer's dark plumage, with its glossy sheen, is contrasted beautifully by the vibrant colors of the hand-applied watercolors. The copperplate engraving technique, a popular method during the 18th and 19th centuries, allowed for the creation of detailed, high-quality prints. Latham's skilled hand and keen eye are evident in the meticulous rendering of the Black Skimmer's feathers, which appear lifelike and textured. This print not only serves as a testament to Latham's artistic and scientific abilities but also offers a glimpse into the natural world of the Black Skimmer, a remarkable bird that continues to captivate and inspire ornithologists and nature enthusiasts alike.
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