One Health Art Series
Illustration | 2017 - present
The One Health Illustration Series is an exciting initiative that bridges the gap between art and science. For each illustration, I collaborate with local scientists and experts to delve into the fascinating world of Nebraska-native animals, exploring their habitats, shared environments, land use changes, and the various threats they face. Currently, the series features three illustrations: Bison, Blanding's Turtle, and Pallid Sturgeon. Scroll down to discover more about each of these captivating illustrations and the stories they tell.
BISON
Once, bison roamed the vast plains of Nebraska in great numbers, embodying the spirit of the prairie. However, habitat and land use changes have made it increasingly rare to spot even a small herd today. What was once an expansive landscape of prairie and open land has transformed into cities, fenced cattle pastures, and cultivated fields. This shift not only impacts bison but also disrupts the ecosystems of other prairie inhabitants, including pollinators and foxes, highlighting the interconnectedness of all species that depend on this vital habitat.
PALLID STURGEON
The Pallid Sturgeon is an endangered fish species native to the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. Dramatic habitat changes, particularly related to water flow alterations from dam construction, have led to significant population declines. These dams create barriers that hinder the fish’s migration, spawning, and access to food sources. Additionally, water pollution has been shown to skew gender ratios, often resulting in a predominance of one gender, which complicates reproduction and further threatens the species’ survival. Protecting the Pallid Sturgeon requires addressing both habitat disruption and pollution to restore the delicate balance of its ecosystem.
Blanding's Turtle
The Blanding's turtle is an endangered species found in northern Nebraska and parts of the central and eastern United States. Easily recognizable by their bright yellow chin and throat, as well as their charming, smiling expressions, these turtles face numerous threats, including predation and habitat loss. Roads pose a significant hazard, making safe travel perilous for them. Blanding's turtles do not reach sexual maturity until their late teens and can live for over seventy years, underscoring the importance of protecting their habitats to ensure their survival for generations to come.