Two of the birds in the portfolio have become renowned since the 18th century for their notable extinctions. The Carolina Parakeet, the only endemic species of parrot in North America, had similar habits to the Bobolink and was a nuisance on rice plantations. Unfortunately, the Carolina Parakeets were a social species and would gather around a fallen companion making it easier to kill the entire flock at once. Mark Catesby first published the Carolina Parakeet in
his 1731 volume of Natural History of Carolina, Florida and the Bahama Islands. It was officially declared extinct in 1939.
Carolina Parakeet
George Edwards England, 1733
Watercolor on paper
Lenhardt Collection of George Edwards Watercolors at Drayton Hall
The Ivory-billed Woodpecker continues to intrigue bird enthusiasts with occasional hopeful “sightings” referring to birders hearing their call; the last official sighting of an Ivory-billed Woodpecker was in 1944. Despite no verified sightings in 80 years, it remains on the “Critically Endangered” list. An official extinction ruling was set for October 2023, but was delayed once again. Its most distinctive features are its large size, light-colored “ivory” bill and, in the case of the male pictured here, the red crest.
Ivory-billed Woodpecker
George Edwards England, 1733
Watercolor on paper
Lenhardt Collection of George Edwards Watercolors at Drayton Hall
This is part of a special online exhibit titled, Flights of Fancy: An Exploration of Uncommon Birds. To view more please visit:
To view an interactive map showcasing all 47 watercolors, please visit:
