Stamps

Animal of the year 2026 − European hedgehog

The animal of the year for 2026 is the hedgehog. The new stamp depicts this little survivor and reminds us how important protection and refuge are to him.

Rich Content Section

Animal of the Year 2026 stamp – brown-breasted crucible

The European hedgehog has lived in our gardens, parks and outlying areas for centuries. Despite its adaptability, it is now considered potentially vulnerable due to habitat fragmentation, traffic congestion, and loss of natural places of refuge. The stamp focuses on the small mammal and shows its distinctive shape with its fine spines, which offer protection and serve as a distinctive feature. It reminds us of the importance of rich habitats for the survival of this species. Leaving piles of leaves in place, creating passages in garden fences and promoting peace and quiet in the garden at night can all help to support the hedgehog directly. This makes the stamp a silent ambassador for greater awareness of an animal that is seeking closeness to humans and needs our help.

You can also listen to the full article.

Discover now

Logo Pro Natura

Prize draw – take part and win

Enter by 31 March 2026, and with a bit of luck, you could win some unforgettable days in the Aletsch region!

Together with Pro Natura, we’re giving away 3 × 2 nights including half board for two people at Villa Cassel, worth a total of 1,400 francs.

More about Pro Natura

How it works:

Simply fill in and send the participation form below. Good luck!

Participation form

Rich Content Section

Sheetlet of 10 stamps
Sheetlet of 10 stamps
Single stamp on first-day cover C6
Single stamp on first-day cover C6
Postal card, also available as an unstamped picture postcard
Postal card, also available as an unstamped picture postcard
Souvenir sheet
Souvenir sheet

Technical information

Sales

Philately: from 26.2.2026 to 30.4.2027 or while stocks last

Branches: from 5.3.2026 to 30.4.2027 or while stocks last

Validity  

Unlimited from 5.3.2026

Printing

Offset, 4-colour; Gutenberg AG, Schaan, Principality of Liechtenstein

Formats

Stamps: 28 × 33 mm

Sheetlet: 192 × 115 mm

2 rows of 5 stamps

Paper

White stamp paper, with optical brightener, self-adhesive, on backing paper, 196 gm2

Perforation

13 ½ : 13 ¼

Design

Nadine Colin, Zurich

Buy stamps now
All stamps and philatelic products can be found at postshop.ch