Not a budgie, but...

[vacanteyes]

Some of you may have seen my thread about all of my other animals, and it included a girl that held a very special part of my heart - my black throat monitor, Raptor. She was a grumpy old so-and-so, and I didn't have a clue what to do with her when I first got her - she was abandoned on Christmas day and the RSPCA refused to help her. But I did my research, built her a whole room, and nursed her back to health.









Sadly, Raptor died completely unexpectedly a couple of weeks ago.



She refused her food for 4 days, and struggled to hold her head up, but other than that behaved as normal.
The vet reckoned something neurological has caused it, perhaps something similar to a stroke, but she was booked in for x-rays in the afternoon. She unfortunately died just before we managed to get to the vets.

I am completely heartbroken.

She was scaly, cold and miserable. But she was an amazing pet to observe and interact with (on her terms). I can't get over the fact she's gone, and I've completed this painting of her today as something to concentrate on considering uni has finished for the summer now.



And although most people find it weird and creepy, I clean and re-articulate skeletons as a hobby, and considering I can't bear to part with her, I hope to do this over the summer so she can have pride of place in my flat

Here's to Raptor.

[lousette]

So sorry for your loss. I don't know anything about reptiles, but she was gorgeous and what an amazing painting too.

[stace]

Wow. She was an amazing creature. That illustration/painting is fantastic. You've got a real talent there.

How long did you have her?

[skysmum]

Ohhh im so sorry for your loss, RIP Raptor.
My daughter has a beautiful chameleon called Lenny and im very fond of him, he is so friendly and loves to come out for a smooch.
Your painting is amazing.

[Hezz]

So sorry, vacanteyes. Raptor was lucky you found her and put so much time and effort into her. Your painting is amazing - very beautiful. RIP Raptor.

[budgiefriend]

Rest in Peace, Raptor. You will live forever in your Mom's heart. I am so sorry for your loss.

[Learner]

It's always sad when a pet goes and this amazing creature was certainly a character by the look of her. Wasn't she lucky to have met up with you and ended her days wanted and so very well treated.

Your art work is phenominal - I wish I had half of your skill.

Have you created any work on birds and budgies?

[BudgiesBuddy]

I am so sorry for your loss.

You have made an excellent painting of her.

[Gaile]

well done to you, for homing her in her time of need! I bet she had the best life with you, even if she was grumpy!!! Painting is brilliant xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[vacanteyes]

Thank you very much for all of your kind words.
To reply to the questions, "stace" - I had her for 5 years. I am told she was 5 or 6 already when I got her, and their lifespan is debated to be between 12 and 25 depending on who you ask, I was hoping I would be able to enjoy her for a lot longer.

And to "Learner" - so far no budgies, I've only recently started painting portraits and it's been mainly dogs so far, and 1 baby. I'm hoping to get pictures of all my pets at some point.

[Hezz]

Do you do sittings, or work from photos, vacanteyes? Making me wish I could get something done of my little flock ........ good to see that wonderful talent being put to good use. How long does something like Raptor's portrait take you?

[vacanteyes]

So far I have only ever worked from photographs when doing portraits, I've found it works out well and allows for breaks if required. That particular painting took around 5 hours in total and is half way between A4 and A3 in size (not sure of the exact measurements). It varies depending on the level of detail present and the size of the finished piece. I think perhaps I will run out of room for my paintings eventually!

[marleen4]

What an amazing animal and wonderful owner. I agree that you are a skillful artist, and hope you will continue to use this talent!!!

[vacanteyes]

Thanks again everyone. For those of you who asked whether I'd done budgies, I just finished a painting of mine (I'm aiming to paint all of my pets eventually!) Probably put it in the wrong section but never mind.

budgerigarsforum.proboards.com/thread/6444/budgie-painting

[Hezz]

It is a great place to put your painting of Bluey. More, please, as you get them done.