18.06.2012

Two stamps with pictures of traditional Latvian birds added to Birds of Latvia collection

Two new additions have been made by Latvijas Pasts to the stamp series Birds of Latvia - stamps depicting bird species characteristic to Latvia: the Barn Swallow (Hirundo rustica) and the Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis). The first-day cancellation event will take place on June 16 in post office Sakta, 32 Brīvības Boulevard, Riga, from 8 AM to 6 PM.

The denomination of Barn Swallow is LVL 0.35, corresponding to the cost of mailing a regular letter within the territory of Latvia. The total print run is 400,000 stamps. The denomination of Goldfinch is LVL 0.98, suitable for sending a registered letter within Latvia; 80,000 of these stamps will be released. The stamps have been designed by artist Ģirts Grīva.

The release of the stamps is accompanied by two first-day covers and two special cancellations. The covers are adorned by pictures of the swallow and the goldfinch in their natural environment, while the cancellation depicts each bird in graphical form.

The Birds of Latvia series was initiated by Latvijas Pasts in 2010 with the release of the stamps European Roller and Eagle-owl. In 2011, these were joined by Icterine Warbler and Snake Eagle.

The Barn Swallow is the most widespread species of swallow. It is a bird of open country and builds nests in closed, man-made structures protected from precipitation and wind. The Barn Swallow is renowned for its skill of catching insects in flight. To many nations, the Barn Swallow is a symbol of hope, luck, and the coming of spring; Latvian beliefs about swallows relate to the weather, money and happiness.

The Goldfinch is one of the most beautiful birds found in Latvia. The Goldfinch nests and winters in Latvia, as well as migrating through it. It prefers the edges of forests, birch groves, parks and orchards. The goldfinch's preferred food is small seeds, such as those from thistles, from which the little bird's Latvian name is derived.

See pictures of the latest stamps and envelopes released by Latvijas Pasts.

The next new philatelic release is scheduled for June 14.

About SJSC Latvijas Pasts

Latvijas Pasts ensures the widest availability of postal services throughout Latvia by maintaining more than 600 post offices. The primary function of the company is provision of the universal postal service; Latvijas Pasts also provides commercial transport, express mail, payment, press subscription, retail and philatelic services. Latvijas Pasts is a fully state-owned company with more than 4,500 employees.

Additional information
Zane Plone
SJSC Latvijas Pasts
Public Relations Specialist
Phone: +371 67608504
E-mail: zane.plone@pasts.lv