White-throated Sparrow and Pussy Willow by Robert Bateman

White-throated Sparrow and Pussy Willow by Robert Bateman

 

Published in 1984

 

"The white-throated sparrow is a modest looking bird, but with a subtle beauty. I really enjoy the combination of black, white and yellow on the head with the modulated gray cheeks. In our area, the migration begins at the same time as the pussy willows are in bloom. The green leaves of spring are still hidden inside the buds of all the trees. I decided that the gentle grays of the landscape complimented the plumage of the bird, and the yellow pollen on the pussy willows matched the diagnostic yellow patch in front of the sparrow's eye." - R. Bqteman