About the Project

The ZooTrophy Animal-a-Day project began on October 15th, 2013 as illustrator Angela "LemurKat" Oliver began working her way, systematically but selectively, through the alphabet and presenting, via social media, an illustrated animal to the world. Daily.

All pieces are drawn as 2.5 x 3.5 inch collectible cards, using a combination of polychromos and prismacolor pencils, along with other art materials. Many are still available for purchase ($10) or trade, so drop her an email if anything captures your eye or if there is an animal you wish to request.

It is predicted this project will take her at least two years to complete - with approximately 36 animals being drawn for each letter. She has also used the images to create a collectible hardback encyclopedia series, playing cards and a desk calendar, as well as the ZooTrophy collectible trading card game.

Thursday, January 9, 2014

Creature Feature #83: Cardinal


The Northern Cardinal is numerous throughout the eastern US states, and down into Central America. He is a brightly coloured songbird, although his mate is rather more dowdy. The two mate for life, with the male announcing their territory with a high, clear whistle and chasing off any intruders that might venture into it. These songs are learned, and thus vary regionally. The female also sings, and sometimes they duet together. He also has a distinctive alarm call, which he uses to alert his mate - when she is sitting on the nest - of encroaching predators. Potential predators include snakes, owls, rodents and cats, all of which prey on either birds or eggs.

My scanner does not handle red well, and thus this fellow may not make the final “cut” for my Animal encyclopedia. I have far too many animals planned for C, at any rate.

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