The critically endangered Cape Parrot (Poicephalus robustus) is South Africa's only endemic parrot, and there is a high probability that they will go extinct within the next few years unless we act now.
A combination of habitat loss, disease, direct persecution and illegal capture has decimated the global population to less than 1,500 Cape Parrots in the wild. They are restricted to small Afromontane forest patches along the south coast of South Africa.
Dr. Steve Boyes, Director of Africa Geographic and World Parrot Trust Africa, recently launched the Cape Parrot Project to develop a comprehensive research and conservation strategy to save these birds from three major threats: capture for the wild-caught bird trade, loss of habitat and disease.
Focus of the Cape Parrot Project is to conserve Cape Parrots and the Afromontane mistbelt forests they depend upon. They are currently battling an outbreak of Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease that is moving through the wild population.
World-renowned artist Daniel Taylor teamed up with Steve Boyes to create a unique, high-realism painting of the Cape Parrot to promote the work of the Cape Parrot Project and help raise the much needed funds.
Taylor is internationally renowned for his expressive portraits and wildlife art. His paintings are built up in a series of subtle layers, making them breathtakingly realistic and giving the impression of the paintings coming alive.
Progressive photos of the Cape Parrot painting in process will be posted here and on other websites.
This beautiful bird needs protection and your help to secure its home, and its future, before it is too late.
Help keep Cape Parrots in the wild, where they belong!
With each purchase, 80% of the revenues will go to the Cape Parrot Project.
Please take a moment to visit the websites of these important organisations.
www.africaskyblue.org/Cape_Parrot_Project.html
www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=414491807165
Prints will be available soon.
