| Name | Value |
|---|---|
| Date of Issue | February 1, 2001 |
| Year | 2001 |
| Quantity | 4,199,000 |
| Denomination |
47¢
|
| Perforation or Dimension | 12.5 x 13, diecut, imperforate = découpé à l'emporte-pièce, non dentelé |
| Series | Birds of Canada |
| Series Time Span | 1996 - 2001 |
| Printer | Ashton-Potter Canada Limited. |
| Postal Administration | Canada |
| Condition | Name | Avg Value |
|---|---|---|
|
M-NH-VF
|
Mint - Never Hinged - Very Fine | Only available to paid users |
|
U-VF
|
Used - Very Fine | Only available to paid users |
The annual issue of Canada Post's Birds of Canada series is an eagerly-anticipated event amongst collectors across the country. The series is valued as much by general collectors for its stunning illustrations of Canada's splendid bird life as it is by thematic collectors for its meticulous portrayal of diverse species. The four domestic-rate stamps feature exquisite artwork by noted illustrator Pierre Leduc, who has captured the very essence of the Lapland longspur, the Arctic tern, the golden eagle and the rock ptarmigan.
Lapland Longspur
This small songbird is plentiful throughout northern Yukon and the Territories, and in the northern parts of Quebec, Labrador, Ontario and Manitoba. Males typically measure between 12.7 and 17.8 centimetres in length - slightly longer than the female. During the breeding season the male boasts vivid plumage with bold patterns. A groundbird, the longspur is found in meadows, grass and other moist places during breeding season; and in fields, dunes, and along shores during the winter. The nest is a small cup of grasses, moss and roots built in a depression in the ground.
About the Stamp
In researching which birds to include in the sixth issue of Canada Post's Birds of Canada series, consideration was given to geographic balance along with various types and classifications. Many experts in the field were consulted and ornithologist Dr. Henri Ouellet assisted in the selection of the featured four birds. Sadly, Dr. Ouellet did not live to see the completion of his work. Noted scientific illustrator and wildlife artist Pierre Leduc from Stoneham, Quebec, created the acrylic paintings used by Montreal designer Raymond Bellemare. Leduc has provided the illustrations for all six Birds of Canada issues.