Havell, Robert, Jr.

In this painting, Havell has adapted and expanded plate CCCCIX, "Havell's Terns," with background elements borrowed from several other shorebird plates.

Although the subject of this painting is currently known as "Forster's Tern," in the Ornithological Biography, Audubon gave his reasons for calling the species after his collaborator: "I have several reasons for naming this Tern after Mr. Robert Havell, of Oxford Street, London. In the first place I consider him as one of the best ornithological engravers in England. Secondly, I feel greatly indebted to him for the interest which he has always evinced in my publication, which I dare to venture to assert, is the largest work of the kind that has hitherto appeared, and the engraving of which has cost him much trouble and anxiety. Thirdly, I consider myself entitled to express my gratitude in this manner, the individual on whom I confer the honour being more deserving of it than many to whom similar compliments have been paid" (vol. v: 122).