Stamps
EUROPA – Endangered national wildlife
The woodland brown and the scarce large blue – two butterflies that could hardly be more different. But they do have one thing in common: both are classified as endangered species in Switzerland.
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The topic selected by PostEurop for this year’s EUROPA stamps is “Endangered national wildlife”. Switzerland’s contribution was produced by the highly dedicated scientific illustrator Nina Schwarz from Bern. The designs are of the woodland brown (Lopinga achine) and the scarce large blue (Phengaris teleius) – because insects are also classified as wild animals. The illustrations seek to highlight the delicate nature of these animals through a highly detailed and lifelike style. The meticulous presentation and vibrant background colours aim to catch the eye and emphasize the fact that the animals are under threat. Pro Natura provided invaluable expert advice during the creative process.

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Tips for a butterfly-friendly garden
Butterflies need diversity. Make sure you plant mainly indigenous shrubs, wild flowers and meadow herbs and follow organic principles to cultivate your garden. Lawns full of flowers, areas with tall grass and a corner for nettles and thistles provide sources of food and a place of refuge for many caterpillars and butterflies. Finally, being a bit lazy about working in the garden is actually very helpful: piles of branches, dry shrubs and infrequently mowed lawns provide vital habitats. Further details and tips on creating a butterfly-friendly balcony can be found at:
pronatura.ch/de/schmetterlingsfreundliche-gaertenTarget not accessible

Technical information
Sales
Philately: from 29.4.2021 to 30.6.2022 or while stocks last
Branches: from 6.5.2021 to 30.6.2022 or while stocks last
Validity
Unlimited from 6.5.2021
Printing
Offset, 5-colour; Gutenberg AG, Schaan, Liechtenstein
Sizes
Stamps: 40 × 32.5 mm
Sheet: 190 × 162 mm
(4 rows of 4 stamps)
Paper
White stamp paper with optical brightener, matt gummed, 110 gm²
Perforation
12
Design
Nina Schwarz, Bern