John James Audubon (26 April, 1785 – 27 January, 1851) was a respected American naturalist, ornithologist, and painter, who was born Jean-Jacques Audobon in Saint Dominigue, present day Haiti. He earned his global reputation from his commitment to documenting bird species through illustration. Audubon's the creator of “Birds of America”, a book that ranks among the most prolific ornithological works ever made. Through his adventures and devoted research, he discovered 25 new bird species, which he also documented through illustration. Audubon’s early life was filled with domestic challenges. He lived with his step mother in France and grew up a very stubborn boy. Still, he managed to get tutorship in mathematics, music, drawing, fencing, and geography. Instead of concentration on his studies, Audubon preferred staying outdoors, fishing, hunting et al. His father later sent him to Paris where he was registered for art studies. He resisted that too. When he finally moved to America, he continued living the life of a countryman, focusing more on outdoor activities. Audubon spent some time creating $5 portraits for people using crayons.
It's in Ohio where, in 1820, the idea of having his bird drawings published occurred to him. That's when he set out to explore more on birds. Audubon efforts to have his works published met great opposition from Alexander Wilson’s friends. Wilson was also an ornithologist, with whom he had rivalry dating back to 1810. He later traveled to Europe where he got a deal with a London-based publisher, and in 1827, volumes of his famous Birds of America began finding their way to the market. The full publication was completed in 11 years. Audubon became the first to create the largest volume of birds’ collection, delivered in their natural habitats. He would later create a nature museum where he conserved most of his works. His works are collected in museums, including Brooklyn museum. To show how famous his works are, John James Audubon framed art still sell to date and have been widely used for decor.