Birds were born -- or rather hatched -- to be painted. But with all the different species, colors, poses and personalities, where is an artist to begin? Right here! In Watercolor Basics: Drawing and Painting Birds, Shirley Porter gives you what she wished for as a beginner: a single, simple source of essential information for the bird-painter. You'll find everything you need to get started -- from basic "bird stuff" (such as how a wing folds) to 24 step-by-step demonstrations that show you how to paint a variety of birds, poses and backgrounds. You'll even find bird-watching tips for spotting important characteristics that will make your subjects both recognizable and realistic. Painting your favorite feathered friends has never been easier -- or more fun!