Becorns Episode 1: Bluebirds

Becorns are little people I make out of acorns and sticks. Then I photograph them in nature with real animals. In this video, I share my process for taking photos with some Eastern Bluebirds.

EDIT:
Hi folks. I appreciate the concern some of you have for the well being of the birds. I share your feelings and also felt very protective of their little family. Here are some precautions I took:

- To protect from predators, I built the birdouse and baffle according to the recommedations by the Connecticut Audubon (see below for link). The second platform was only in place during photography sessions when I was able to monitor for predators.

- It’s recommended to check Bluebird boxes at least once a week. From my research online, I learned that bluebirds are actually quite tolerant of humans. I opened up the box briefly every five days, and stopped when they had feathers and there was risk of birds jumping out. I only opened the box when the parents were away collecting food.

Here are some resources I called upon:

I’ve since come to understand that it’s illegal in the US to collect migratory bird feathers without a license because it violates International Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918. The treaty makes it unlawful to hunt, take, capture, kill, or sell migratory birds. The statute extends to any bird part, including feathers, eggs, and nests. I found the bluejay feather on the ground, but there’s no way law enforcement could know that, thus the blanket regulation. There are plenty of bird species that aren’t protected though. Time to find some chicken feathers!

My goal is to honor and respect the animals, and I hope that by sharing what I learn about them, we all can expand our appreciation and respect for them.

[nct]

very creative! you could write children stories with your acorn people as illustrations, I believe they would be a great hit.

[moonycat]

These little acorn people are literally so adorable and look like mystical little forest spirits

[crowickedone]

YOU were a designer for Bionicle!?

Dude! Let me thank you for years of fun, inspiration, and for being partially responsible for pulling me into art!(and everything else) You should know that community is still strong. You made a helluva good job during those five years. And now these little guys, they're great, they're precious and we require more.

Thanks again for everything!

[TJ_ax]

YOU USED TO DESIGN BIONICLES?!! I’m so amazed I just randomly came across this and you designed literal parts of my childhood. Much love

[kymberlydawn]

Your children are lucky to have such a creative father. Their heads will be filled with endless stories and they will witness the magic of life because of you. Bravo.

[SanJuanJeff]

I can’t thank you enough- everything about this gentle video filled me with such hope and wonder. You’re a special soul to have taken the time and effort to create this magical miniature world.

[WhiteMousse]

I don't know if anyone else has mentioned or noticed this, but you deserve credit for blending artistic style with an actual experience in encountering and connecting with nature. Your art creates an occasion in which you're able to interact with the animals. It's beautiful

[tanyaandrovich]

I was one of those kids that grew up playing with Lego and Bionicle. Such an integral part of my childhood.

It’s wonderful to find out when the people who helped build my childhood are off in the world still doing great things!

[sm]

This is the most delightful, charming and wonderful thing I’ve seen in ages. As a forager of forests and seashore who delights in making wee things, and can make up whole scenarios to share with my granddaughter, I’ve found my very happy place here in YouTube. Thank you for this!

[tb]

Your little one will be so proud to say "yep my dad did Becorns" they are so adorable. Totally do a children's book.

[f.d.]

Dave, it's awesome to see how you created this whole universe complete with a story and a coherent design language! Don't worry about leaving Lego. When you are a real designer/artist "the system" is simply way too limiting. Natural materials in their complexity are way more stimulating/rewarding to work with: there is always an element of surprise (failure) but the results are richer and deeper and thus more appealing.

[glendawoodward]

Lovely! I've been making these little things most of my life. I hang them in trees maybe people will think the fairies left them. I'm most likely old enough to be your grandma. I'm glad to see young people continue with it.

[bluetickbeagles]

This incredible. The artistic creativity using acorns and pairing it with real wildlife is impeccable. Wow!! 🤩

[oogalook]

I'm 30 seconds in and I've already subscribed. It's cuz you're up front and you're authentic, man. You tell us exactly what's going to happen, not trying to dress it up or add any flair, and you'll have the work speak for itself. Excellent.

[sheilamore]

I just love your little stories with the birds you’re so creative and bring everything to life children will absolutely love this I still have a child in me and I’m 63 I think this is the most creative thing I’ve saw in a long, long time I wished I had this when I was a kid This Is wonderful😁😍💕 wonderful I love it

[halogeek]

This... this is very wholesome. Something about a man just making art and enjoying his passion. The world needs more of this.

[jurassicmongoose]

I was really inspired by your backstory. I'm kind of in the same boat myself right now. Just quit my job last week because it was just destroying my body and happiness. I haven't found my acorn yet but I'm confident that I will. Keep up the great work.

[fredderf]

This little presentation made my day. When you bring a simple smile to a person’s face …you have accomplished so much.

[queenbee]

Adorable! 💖 And Im an old lady. I love your videos. Your baby is lucky to have a Dad that still has the whimsy part of his brain still functioning and intact. Be sure to pass it on. I did with my little girl. She grew up and became a librarian and now shes passing it on to other generations. 👍🐦

[mariacargille]

As an avid creator, storyteller, and collector of nature bits, I can't tell you how encouraging it is to see someone make things like you do! Thank you. 🌰