Always surprised how smaller birds manage to not only attack but to successfully fend off larger birds of prey was the inspiration for 'Kite manoeuvres.'

The behaviour of 'mobbing' is a term used when smaller birds fend off larger birds protecting their nests and environment. Speed enables these birds to successfully fend off hostile predators.They usually attach the bigger birds from behind or above to avoid the larger birds talons. This only goes to show that being small is not necessary a limitation.

Magpies are notorious for swooping on humans, no doubt an affective deterrent in protecting their young, not unlike human behaviour.

I chose to paint in acrylic using a multi layering method on canvas in a realistic style. The wonderful wheatbelt landscape and moody sky provided the perfect backdrop for 'Kite manoeuvres'.

The artwork is currently framed and depicts an Australian magpie (Cracticus tibicen) pursuing a whistling kite (Haliastur sphenurus)