Cock of the plains

John James Audubon

1827-1838

Cock of the plains by John James Audubon, 1827-1838

Check out the dramatic display on the right—this male Greater Prairie Chicken is puffing up his bright orange air sacs and fanning his tail feathers into a spectacular spike to impress a mate. John James Audubon was a master at capturing birds in dynamic action, often using wires to pose freshly killed specimens so they looked alive and energetic. This print comes from his legendary project to document North American birds, showcasing his incredible attention to feather detail and natural behavior. The female on the left watches calmly, providing a perfect contrast to the male's wild, spiky performance.

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