Reflection

I live in the “birdiest city” in the nation. More than 380 species have been found in the Corpus Christi, TX, area—nearly half of all bird species documented in North America. Many are coastal birds that make a stop here during their annual migrations. Some are year-round residents. All are in danger because of climate change. The bird in my painting is a Roseate Spoonbill, my mother’s favorite bird. This coastal bird is walking through black smog that signifies the uncertain future of his habitat. Climate change is impacting the birds’ food sources by creating unfavorable conditions for planktonic organisms, shellfish, and corals—the base of most coastal birds’ food chains. Rising and heating waters threaten the productivity and availability of their coastal habitats. The Roseate Spoonbill is surrounded by dark, ominous smoke and blackened seashells to show how the future of their coastal habitats are in danger. The color black is used to express the negative and unknown. I picked the Roseate Spoonbill to represent the coastal birds because of its coloration. Its white and pink colors signify innocence, peacefulness, and hope. The bird shows that this future isn’t yet permanent. We can stop climate change. We can save our coastal birds. I’m determined to do my part and help stop climate change by using reusable items; carpooling, riding my bike, or taking public transportation; always turning off lights when they're not needed; unplugging electronics when they are not in use; and by spreading awareness to my friends and family.