Australia Post features Australian waterbirds on a new stamp issue illustrated by renowned wildlife artist Christopher Pope. This stamp issue will be released on 6 March 2012.

The issue comprises two domestic rate (60c) stamps, depicting the Radjah Shelduck and the Pink-eared Duck, and two international rate stamps ($1.65 and $2.35) featuring the Australian Shelduck and the Plumed Whistling-Duck.

These beautiful stamp illustrations are by Christopher Pope, who acquired his love of wildlife while growing up in regional South Australian towns. The stamp issue is his fourth commission by Australia Post, having previously illustrated the Cocos (Keeling) Islands Visiting Birds (2008), Songbirds (2009) and Australian Kingfishers (2010) stamp issues.

“The stamps showcase some of Australia’s rich birdlife,” said Australia Post Philatelic Manager, Mr Michael Zsolt. “Stamps with an avian theme continue to be a popular choice for collectors and general mail users.”

Australia is home to 28 species of ducks, of which 10 are endemic. In the wild they are a common and quite beautiful group of birds, feeding and travelling in large flocks. Many species tend to be nomadic, partly due to depletion of temporary water sources, which forces them to search for new feeding grounds.

The Radjah Shelduck inhabits the coastal regions of Australia’s far north, occurring mainly in western Arnhem Land, Western Australia and Cape York Peninsula, Queensland. The distinctive Pink-eared Duck has a pink area behind each eye and can be found throughout much of Australia.

The Australian Shelduck is a large bird that has striking plumage and mostly inhabits Australia’s more southerly regions. The fourth species in this stamp issue is the Plumed Whistling-Duck, which is fairly common across northern Australia and east down the coast to the Murray River.

Source: Austrailia Post

published March 7th, 2012