10 May 2019
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Canada Post has revealed the designs of two endangered turtles stamps
The two stamps, which are Permanent values, feature the Blanding’s turtle (Emydoidea blandingii) and the spotted turtle (Clemmys guttata), both of which have been assessed as endangered by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC).
Blanding's turtles
Canadian populations of Blanding’s turtles are found in Ontario, Quebec and Nova Scotia. This medium-sized turtle is known for the distinctive upward curve of its mouth, giving the appearance of a perpetual smile.
Blanding’s turtles can also be identified by their bright yellow throat and distinctive domed shell. Found primarily in shallow waters, Blanding’s turtles also make long overland journeys, with some females travelling more than 10 kilometres during nesting season.
Spotted turtle
The spotted turtle is named for the yellow-orange spots that dot its shell, neck, head and limbs. In Canada, this semi-aquatic turtle is often found in shallow bogs, ponds, marshes and bays, as well as slow-moving streams in pockets of central and southern Ontario.
One of the province’s smallest turtles, its shell measures less than 13 centimetres in length.
Habitat loss, road mortality and illegal collection are among the biggest threats facing Canada’s turtle populations today.
Stamp details
Issue date: 23 May 2019
Design: Adrian Hovarth
Denomination: Permanent
Stamp size: 32mm x 32mm
To order the stamps, visit the Canada Post website.
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(report and images courtesy of Canada Post)