Great Gray Owl (Strix nebulosa)

Conservation Status: endangered to the state of California

Main Threats: habitat Loss and development pressures

Population: 200-300

“Yosemite, today, is the southernmost range and last sanctuary of almost all of California's great gray owls, listed as California State Endangered Species. Researchers estimate there are only about 200 to 300 individuals in California, and about 65% of the state's population resides in Yosemite. Great gray owls nest in the middle elevations of the park where forests and meadows meet. They can be active at any time of the day or night, preferring to hunt in open meadows and clearings within the forest.Then, in winter, they move downslope to snow-free areas where they can more easily access their rodent prey.

This rare and endangered owl is the largest North American owl but also can be found in Asia and Europe. It stands as tall as 2 feet with a 5-foot wingspan and has distinctive piercing yellow eyes accented by large facial disks.”

Read more from the National Park Services’ article HERE

A Little About Me —

I grew up in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. I began my career as a free lance portrait artist. Later transitioning into an art consultant role with a non profit, this led to illustration work for Bible based children's books. In 2014 I started Scarce, to raise money and awareness for animal species in crisis. My work has been exhibited and auctioned by several of America’s most prominent zoos and at Art Basil Miami.

Scarce exists to encourage responsible protection of the endangered and to never forget the beauty of the extinct. I paint extinct animals in black and white because they are forever gone. To the endangered I add a touch of color, for these there is hope.

Through the creation we see the creativity and majesty of a Creator. He is the great artist and he made all creatures for Himself. He put this Planet under our care, and we have proven to be poor stewards. Now is the time for action, let us work together to protect the last truly wild places on our planet and the creatures who call these places home.