News releases

GRAND BEND, Ont. – With spring flowers in bloom and summercoming soon, Canada Post unveiled a pair of stamps that are sure to create a buzz– as much for their unique design as for the subject they celebrate.

Two native bees appear in the new issue, including the extremely rare rusty-patched bumble bee (Bombus affinis)and its colourful and more common co-star, a metallic green bee (Agapostemon virescens). Both are featured on the Official First Day Cover, which is cancelled in Grand Bend, Ontario, near Pinery Provincial Park – the last known location of a rusty-patched bumble bee in Canada.

Once common in parts of southern Ontario and Quebec, the rusty-patched bumble bee was the first bee speciesto be assessedas Endangered by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada. In contrast, the metallic green bee – often spotted carrying loads of pollen on its back legs – is still found throughout southern Canada.

There are approximately 4,000 species of bees native to North America and more than 850 native to Canada. Many bee populations, however, are in decline due to habitat loss, pesticide use and climate change. Canadians can do their part to help nurture their numbers by planting native flowers, allowing more of their property to grow wild, and avoiding the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers.  

The stamps were designed by Andrew Perro of Toronto and illustrated by Dave Murray, aToronto artist known for his cubist takes on portraits and pop culture, based on detailed information and images from some of Canada’s foremost bee experts.

The stamps and all related products are available at retail outlets and online at canadapost.ca. Click here for stamp images and Details magazine.

For more information:
Media Relations
613-734-8888
media@canadapost.ca