A self-taught carver from the Midwest, Jim Elik has developed a unique style of carving that blends realism with attitude. Living near the confluence of the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers has enabled Jim to study wildfowl along the Mississippi Flyway for over 40 years. He has also studied waterfowl on their breeding grounds in Alaska and Canada. Jim believes that a thorough understanding of the birds is necessary to achieve the proper attitude or "personality" of each specie. He has won numerous awards at national, international, and world carving competitions. He donates carvings to Ducks Unlimited to help raise money for preserving wetlands, so vital for successful waterfowl reproduction. Each bird is completely carved and painted by hand and signed on the bottom by Jim. A completed carving can take anywhere from 300 to 500 hours. The years of study and dedication are reflected in every finished carving.