The call of the Common loon is synonymous with cottage country. And it is no surprise since they make their summer home in northern freshwater lakes. In winter they head to the coastlines of North America where they adapt well because of special glands that filter out saltwater allowing them to drink it.

The Common loon is one of  5 species of loons and is also the best known. It is often depicted in wildlife art swimming in pairs across the lake surrounded by evergreen trees. The artwork featured here is a digital rendition of an original watercolor painting. It is sold  on various products and prints in my Redbubble shop

8 x 10 inch watercolor art of raccoon on tree trunk

There is no lack of raccoons in my backyard, sometimes I see a whole family of them strutting across the lawn. Ever hear a raccoon at night? They scream, they snort, growl and make all sorts of other sounds that can keep you awake at night.  But that's just how they communicate with one another.

The raccoon art pictured here is from an animal and wildlife art challenge on a forum I participated in this month.  I had a choice from a variety of animal photos, one of which was a raccoon, so I thought I'd give it a whirl and hone up on practicing watercolor painting.

The Keeshond is a medium sized dog with a beautiful thick bushy coat and curly tail. This dog breed originated in the Netherlands and was at one time called the "Dutch Barge Dog" because it was bred to keep guard on the barges traveling through Holland's waters.

Keeshonden (that's the plural of "Kesshond") are intelligent making them easy to train, and have a gentle nature while at the same time make good watchdogs with their loud bark alerting the family to anything amiss. But don't expect them to go chasing after intruders, the Keeshond  is not known as an aggressive breed.

If you are interested in a modern style watercolour pet portrait such as the Keeshond art in this blog post check out my site at waterart.50webs.com for info on how you can commission a pet portrait

A watercolour version of the rocky shore seascape I painted recently in acrylic. Sometimes I like painting the same picture in different mediums to see how it will look.

Another watercolour landscape painting. This one has a dirt path cutting through large evergreen trees. I'm practicing painting loosely and not focusing on details.