Description (May 23, 2005)

Audubon's Birds of America - This online edition of the 1840 "First Octavo Edition" of Audubon's complete seven volume text includes Audubon's images and original text descriptions. Bird species can be found listed alphabetically and categorized by family. Audobon spent much of his life traveling the continent observing the birds (and animals) and reproduced them in remarkable depth and detail. He took note of the birds' food and habitat preferences meticulously, he watched them move, interact, and behave. He strove for action and reality; and in his portfolio you see his unique approach to the painting of birds.

Classroom Integration

• Write a brief biography of Audubon.
• Explore the portfolio of his artwork, what story is depicted in each painting. Why is he considered a naturalist? Choose several of the artworks and create a PowerPoint presentation with each slide addressing the above questions.
• Report on birds that have become extinct since Audobon's time.