Great Blue Heron

The 2024 Collaboration with Wildlife Preservation Canada

In a collaboration to bring awareness to Canada’s species at risk, Wildlife Preservation Canada and signature member of Artists for Conservation Sarah McComb Turbitt created a challenge for Sarah to paint as many endangered Canadian species as she can during January 2024. In this collection, 15% will be donated to WPC. WPC saves critically endangered species whose numbers in the wild are so low that hands-on action is the last defence to save them from extinction. WPC is the only organization in Canada to provide this critical need for wildlife in recovery efforts across the country, from the single population of endangered frogs in BC to the disappearing pollinators across Ontario.

“Measuring more than one metre in height, the great blue heron's stilt-like legs are essential for foraging in shallow waters where the birds feed on fish and frogs. On land, being a generalist and opportunistic species, great blue herons may hunt for salamanders, smaller birds, reptiles, other small mammals and large insects. When nesting sites are disturbed by human activity, adult herons leave eggs and nestlings unguarded, making them vulnerable to predation by bald eagles and other predatory birds. In addition, adequate nesting sites are becoming limited due to development in the province. High levels of industrial contaminants have been a threat to this species, reducing both reproductive success and survival.” - Learn more at www.natureconservancy.ca

Reference photography for inspiration was kindly provided by Patrick McCormick.

All original artwork is hand-signed by Sarah McComb-Turbitt and includes a certificate of authenticity and white cotton gloves for handling the painting upon delivery.