Alexander Wilson (1766–1813) was a Scottish-born poet, naturalist and illustrator whose American Ornithology was a pioneering account of the birds of the United States. Born in Paisley, Scotland, he worked as a weaver before emigrating to America in 1794. His interest in birds grew while teaching and travelling in Pennsylvania.
Wilson undertook extensive journeys to observe birds in the wild, making drawings and collecting information about their habits. The resulting volumes of American Ornithology began appearing in 1808 and included hand-coloured engraved plates prepared from his original designs. His Roseate Spoonbill depicts the roseate spoonbill, a distinctive pink waterbird with a flattened, spoon-shaped bill. The 1824 date identifies a later edition, since Wilson died in 1813.
Several volumes were completed after his death by George Ord. Wilson's work helped establish systematic bird illustration in North America and preceded the better-known publication of John James Audubon's Birds of America.
Images to download
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Wilson, Alexander (1766-1813) - Roseate Spoonbill (Ajaia ajaja) from American Ornithology 1824
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