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California Banana Slug

California Banana Slug line art illustration (click image to enlarge)

California Banana Slug illustration (click image to enlarge)

Artist's notes:

The California Banana Slug was completed on 7.6.2011. I have encountered these animals several times hiking in the Bay Area. I know some of the animals I draw won't exactly be "crowd pleasers." But still, these animals are an important part of the ecosystem of the Pacific Northwest. They are food for the Giant Pacific Salamander. They are also important in cleaning up waste in the forest. So, while these animals might not be the most beautiful animal in the forest, they are a worthy subject to draw. I tried to draw this slug in the "art noveau" style I love so much. I like to think I am the first artist to attempt this.

Information about the California Banana Slug:

The California Banana Slug is one of three species of land slug native to the damp, coastal areas of the Pacific northwest. They are commonly found the coniferous redwood forests, in environments that provide the moisture and food for the slug to survive. Banana Slugs are detritivores, or decomposers. Which means they often feed on the decaying organic matter on the forest floor. Through the consumption of these materials, the slugs themselves are then eaten by other animals of the forest, so the slugs are critical in the recycling and reuse of the organic matter of the forest. The Banana Slug is the mascot for the University of California, Santa Clara.