Bird Paintings on Wood - The Process

I often get asked  "Did you paint these?" I obviously don't look like the usual artist! Then I get asked "how do you do it"?  so here is how.
It starts with the wood,for example I have a beautiful piece of yew wood with a strong grain, and I thought it needed something proud and imposing. 
The shape and colour of a Kestrel would work well.
First I sketch out the bird in pencil, I use 2b so I don't dent the wood also I can erase any unwanted lines.
I use as many photographs as I can find so I get the details right, because if I dont someone will tell me!.
I then paint the bird using Acrylic paint with 1 and 2point brushes. The painting of the Kestrel took about five to six hours with plenty of cups of coffee.
Lastly I yacht varnish the piece.