Don Balke (North Carolina, B. 1933) "Canada Lynx" Signed lower left. Original Watercolor on Illustration Board.Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation.This painting was originally published on the Fleetwoodmemorative cover for Balke's Baby Wildlife of the 50 States, postmarked December 18, 1984.Stalking the deep pine forests of New Jersey, the female Canada Lynx searches for a den or shallow cave in which to bear her kittens. Glistening yellow cat's eyes peer through the night as the bright moonlight reflects an occasional glimpse of the thin spotted spring coat recently acquired. Finding her cover, this solitary creature slinks silently into a cave and her playful, furry kittens are born. Blind as yet, the two to four babies depend solely on their mother for survival in the wild. It is interesting to note however, that the tom cat, who has long since left his mate in the wilderness will, if held captive -- as in a zoo -- show fatherly tenderness toward his young, playing with them and even helping with their grooming. But all this is taken over by the mother Lynx in the natural cycle of events. She will nurse her brood for two months and teach them necessary tricks of survival for seven more. Meanwhile, these tiny kittens, who begin life in much the same way as the litter of a house cat, will develop -- slowly -- into magnificent wild felines. Once their eyes open -- at about ten days -- they are among the keenest eyes in the forest. The sense of smell is just as strong, and the slightest scent may be followed relentlessly for miles. The adult Lynx travels alone and may climb trees, swim, or use broad paws like snowshoes to trudge across winter's drifts. Indeed, the beautiful silver-coated Canada Lynx is one of the most magnificent creatures of the New Jersey forest.Image Size: 10.75 x 12.75 in.Overall Size: 18.25 x 21 in.Unframed.(B09224)