Issue: Little Curlew Cocos Island Stamp, WWF, Numenius minutus, Cocos (Keeling)Islands
Type: Stamp
Number of Stamps: 1
Stamps Denomination: 70c
Issue Date: 24 March 2015
Issued By: Australia Post
Category - Birds
Embark on a captivating philatelic journey through the enchanting world of bird-themed stamps! Discover the remarkable diversity of avian species from around the globe, showcased on these beautiful and colorful postage stamps. From majestic birds of prey and exotic tropical species to familiar backyard birds, these stamps offer a glimpse into the fascinating world of avifauna. Explore the intricate plumage, graceful flight, and unique characteristics of each bird depicted on the stamps. Delve into the stories behind these winged creatures, their habitats, and conservation efforts dedicated to their preservation. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast, a nature lover, or a passionate stamp collector, bird-themed stamps will transport you to a realm of natural wonder and ignite your curiosity about the avian wonders that grace our planet. Start your collection today and let the stamps take you on a delightful journey through the captivating world of birds.
Issue: Tawny Eagle USA 1985
Type: First Day Cover
Number of Stamps: 2
Stamps Denomination: 22c
Issue Date: 15 May 1985
Issued By: Official Mail USA Washington D.C
About Tawny Eagle USA 1985:
The Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax) is primarily found in the following regions:
Africa:
They are widespread across much of Africa, south of the Sahara Desert. You can find them in various countries throughout the continent, including but not limited to, Tawny Eagle USA 1985
Eastern Africa:
Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Burundi, and others.
Southern Africa:
South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Malawi, and others.
Western Africa:
Nigeria, Senegal, Ghana, Mali, Niger, Burkina Faso, and others.
Central Africa:
Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Central African Republic, Gabon, and others.
South Asia:
They are also found in parts of the Indian subcontinent, including regions like India and Nepal.
Middle East:
Tawny Eagles can be found in certain areas of the Middle East, including countries such as Saudi Arabia and Yemen.
Here are some more details about this impressive raptor:
Appearance:
Tawny Eagles are aptly named due to their tawny or brown plumage, which can vary in shades. They have a paler, almost creamy color on the back of their head and neck. Juvenile Tawny Eagles have a more distinct appearance with lighter patches on their wings.
Distribution:
These eagles are widely distributed across much of Africa, south of the Sahara, as well as parts of the Indian subcontinent and the Middle East. Their range includes countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Ethiopia, Sudan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and others.
Habitat:
Tawny Eagles inhabit a range of environments, from open savannas, grasslands, and steppes to arid deserts and semi-desert regions. They are highly adaptable and can be found in both lowlands and mountainous areas.
Diet:
As opportunistic hunters, Tawny Eagles have a diverse diet. They primarily feed on small to medium-sized mammals, such as rodents, hares, and small antelopes. They also eat birds, reptiles, insects, and occasionally, carrion.
Behavior:
Tawny Eagles are known for their soaring flight and keen eyesight, which helps them spot potential prey from high vantage points. They may also scavenge from the remains of other animals’ kills.
Breeding:
These eagles are generally monogamous and may form lifelong pair bonds. They build large stick nests in trees or on cliffs. The female usually lays one to three eggs, and both parents take turns incubating them.
Last Words
Their distribution across these regions can be influenced by habitat availability, food availability, and other factors. Tawny Eagles are highly adaptable birds and can thrive in diverse environments, ranging from open grasslands and savannas to semi-desert and arid regions.
Issue: The Wildfowl & Wetland Trust FDC
Type: First Day Cover
Number of Stamps: 5
Stamps Denomination: 19p, 25p, 30p, 35p, 41p
Issue Date: 12 March 1996
Issued By: Royal Mail, United Kingdom (UK)
The Wildfowl & Wetland Trust FDC
Issue Details (The Wildfowl & Wetland Trust FDC):
First day cover to celebrate 50 years of The Wildfowl & Wetland Trust. The trust was established in 1946.
The Wildfowl & Wetland Trust
Introduction
The Wildfowl & Wetland Trust (WWT) is a leading conservation organization based in the United Kingdom. It was founded in 1946 by Sir Peter Scott, a renowned conservationist and ornithologist. WWT’s primary focus is the preservation and protection of wetlands and the species that depend on them.
Operations
WWT operates several wetland centers across the UK, where visitors can experience and learn about wetland habitats, wildlife, and conservation efforts. These centers provide opportunities for people of all ages to connect with nature, observe a variety of bird species, and participate in educational activities and events.
The organization also conducts scientific research to understand wetland ecosystems and their wildlife, helping to inform conservation practices and policy decisions. WWT’s research encompasses a wide range of topics, including bird migration, wetland ecology, and habitat management.
The Wildfowl & Wetland Trust FDC
Weland Habitat Restoration
In addition to its conservation and research work, WWT plays an active role in wetland habitat restoration and management. They collaborate with local communities, landowners, and government agencies to restore and create new wetland habitats, ensuring the long-term viability of these important ecosystems.
WWT also engages in advocacy and policy initiatives to raise awareness about the value of wetlands and to promote their protection at local, national, and international levels. They work with partners and stakeholders to influence policies and practices that impact wetlands and their associated biodiversity.
Final words
The Wildfowl & Wetland Trust is dedicated to conserving wetlands and their wildlife, promoting understanding and appreciation of these unique habitats, and inspiring people to take action for their conservation.
Title: Priolo (Pyrrhula Murina), Azores bullfinch
Type: Souvenir Sheet with 1 stamp
Stamp / FDC / Souvenir Sheet Condition: Cancelled
Issued By: Portugal
Year of Issue: 2008
Azores bullfinch
About Azores bullfinch postage stamps
There were postage stamps featuring the Azores bullfinch (Priolo). These stamps were issued by the postal authorities of Portugal and the Azores to celebrate and raise awareness about this endangered bird species and its conservation efforts. Here are some notable examples:
Azores Bullfinch Stamp (2010):
One of the earliest stamps featuring the Azores bullfinch was issued in 2010 by the Portuguese postal service, Correios de Portugal (CTT). The stamp design depicted the Colorful male Azores bullfinch perched on a branch, showcasing its distinctive blackish-brown and reddish-orange plumage. The stamp was part of a series dedicated to promoting the unique wildlife and biodiversity of the Azores archipelago.
International Year of Biodiversity (2010):
In the same year, the Azores also issued a set of stamps in collaboration with CTT to commemorate the International Year of Biodiversity. The stamps featured various species endemic to the Azores, including the Azores bullfinch, to highlight the rich biodiversity of the islands and the importance of conserving unique and threatened species.
Priority Species – Azores Bullfinch (2012):
To raise awareness about endangered species in the Azores and support conservation efforts, a set of stamps was issued featuring priority species in 2012. The Azores bullfinch was one of the prominent species showcased on these stamps. The design aimed to draw attention to the conservation challenges faced by the bullfinch and the need to protect its natural habitat.
Azores bullfinch:
The Azores bullfinch, also known as the Priolo (Pyrrhula Murina), is a small passerine bird endemic to the Azores archipelago, a group of islands located in the North Atlantic Ocean. It is considered one of the rarest birds in Europe, and its conservation status is classified as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
Here are some key characteristics and information,
Appearance:
The Azores bullfinch is a small bird, measuring about 15 centimeters (6 inches) in length. The male has a distinctive appearance, with a gray head, dark bill, and a bright red-orange breast and belly. The wings and tail are black, and the back and sides are grayish-brown. The female has similar coloration but is generally duller and lacks the vibrant red-orange coloration.
Habitat:
The bullfinch is found exclusively in the native laurisilva forest of the eastern part of the island of São Miguel in the Azores. This type of forest is characterized by evergreen trees, mosses, and ferns. The bird prefers the dense undergrowth and humid areas of the forest.
Diet:
The Azores bullfinch primarily feeds on plant material, including seeds, buds, flowers, and fruits. It has a particular preference for the needles of the endemic Azorean cedar (Juniperus brevifolia). Insects and other small invertebrates may also be part of its diet, especially during the breeding season.
Breeding and behavior:
The breeding season of the Azores bullfinch generally takes place from March to August. Males establish territories and perform courtship displays to attract females. The female constructs a cup-shaped nest using twigs, grass, and other plant materials. A typical clutch consists of 2 to 3 eggs, which are incubated by the female for around 14 days. Both parents participate in feeding the nestlings.
Conservation status and threats:
The Azores bullfinch is critically endangered, and its population is highly restricted to a small range within the island of São Miguel. The main threats to its survival include habitat loss and fragmentation due to agriculture, invasive plant species, and human development. The introduction of non-native predators, such as rats and cats, also poses a significant risk to the bird.
Conservation efforts:
Several conservation initiatives have been implemented to protect the Azores bullfinch and its habitat. These include habitat restoration projects, predator control programs, and captive breeding and reintroduction efforts. The establishment of protected areas, such as the Pico da Vara Natural Reserve, has helped in safeguarding the remaining population.
Island Distribution:
The Azores bullfinch is found exclusively on the island of São Miguel, which is the largest and most populous island in the Azores archipelago. Within São Miguel, the bullfinch inhabits the remnant native laurisilva forests, which are mainly concentrated in the eastern part of the island.
Endemism:
The Azores bullfinch is a remarkable example of island endemism, meaning it is native and restricted to a specific geographical area, in this case, the Azores archipelago. This species evolved in isolation from other bullfinch populations, resulting in its unique characteristics and adaptations.
Conservation Challenges:
The Azores bullfinch faces several threats that have contributed to its endangered status:
Habitat Loss:
The primary threat to this species is habitat loss and degradation. The clearing of native forests for agriculture, urbanization, and other human activities has severely reduced the bullfinch’s available habitat.
Invasive Species:
Introduced species, such as rats and feral cats, prey on the bullfinch and its eggs, posing a significant threat to the population.
Climate Change:
Climate change impacts, such as altered rainfall patterns and temperature fluctuations, can affect the availability of food resources and nesting sites for the bullfinch.
Limited Range:
The Azores bullfinch’s restricted distribution makes it more susceptible to local catastrophes or changes in its habitat.
Overall, the Azores bullfinch is an iconic and endangered bird species endemic to the Azores archipelago. It serves as a flagship species for conservation efforts in the region, highlighting the importance of preserving and restoring its unique habitat for the benefit of other endemic species as well.