Germany- Bird of the Year 2013

The Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago) was bird of the year in Germany 2013. Although not yet on the threatened list the numbers have declined steadily over the years mainly due to habitat destruction from field drainage and agriculture. Snipe are migratory and  breed in marshy areas of northern Europe and northern Asia. Snipe have always been  popular  as gamebirds and hunting continues within its range. The pictorial postmark cancels the commemorative stamp of Jasmund National Park famous for its massive chalk cliffs but also home to many snipe in the marshes and wetland areas.

Germany-Bird of the Year 2013

Many countries now select a "Bird of the Year" to bring attention to  threatened of species. This year Germany selected to highlight  the Common Snipe ( (Gallinago gallinago) - a migratory  wading bird of the Old World which breeds in marshy wetlands in Northern Europe and Northern Asia. During courtship display, the bird vibrates its tail feathers creating a  sound which can be similar to a bleating sheep or goat. In many languages the bird is also known as the Goat bird, Flying Goat, Heather-bleater or Heaven's ram.
These attractive commemorative postmarks have been issued annually since 1971.

Taiwan-Greater Painted Snipe

2009 stamps featuring a  Greater Painted-snipe ( Rostratula benghalensis) which is a wader species found in the marshes of Africa, Inida, Pakistan and SE Asia.  The birds are  unusual in that they have reversed sexual dimorphism, the female is larger and more brightly colored than the male.

I didn't crop the bird out this time because I consider the cancellations to special to be missed. A once in a lifetime event..never again in my lifetime of yours.