An Post has issued two new ‘Protect Nature’ stamps developed in conjunction with Ireland’s National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).

Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan launched the new stamps just ahead of National Biodiversity Week, which takes place from May 15 to 24.

The new stamps highlight how "everyone’s actions impact the natural world around us, and the importance of us all playing our part in protecting nature as we participate in everyday leisure and work activities".

The designs focus on the effect of water pollution and fire on natural surroundings and wildlife, carrying the message to 'observe, respect and protect' all nature, now and for generations to come.

Welcoming the new stamps, Minister O’Sullivan said: “This set of two stamps from An Post reminds us all of the need to protect Ireland’s natural heritage and highlights two of the biggest threats faced by wildlife and habitats – fire and water pollution.

"As National Biodiversity Week approaches, it’s particularly timely that An Post is highlighting the message to ‘observe, respect and protect’ our natural world.

“Small changes in our behaviour outdoors can make a big difference, particularly at this time of year."

Simple actions

The minister said these include "simple actions" like keeping dogs on leads, sticking to the paths in sensitive habitats like dunes and bogs, leaving the barbeque at home and keeping a distance from nests and wildlife. 

"Let’s all enjoy the outdoors responsibly, while giving wildlife the space it needs to thrive," Minister O'Sullivan added.

The stamps were unveiled at Knocksink Wood Nature Reserve, Co. Wicklow, one of the many NPWS sites across the country offering up-close access to nature.

An Post’s chief sustainability officer, Owen Keogh said that An Post has "set the goal of restoring the biodiversity within our land and property portfolio to 1984 levels by 2030".

“On the ground this means An Post rewilding, planting native trees, restoring land and installing bird and bat boxes on ground surrounding parcel hubs and delivery depots," Keogh said.

"So far, we have completed restoration projects across 54% of our available land and at 30% of our properties."

Nesting birds

Wesley Atkinson, NPWS regional manager, said that some of the rarest ground-nesting birds like the lapwing and little tern rely on habitats such as the native woodlands at Knocksink Nature Reserve to nest and breed successfully.

"We all need to be aware of how our behaviour and activities can impact nature," Atkinson said.

"So when you are visiting a national park or nature reserve, please observe the signage, remove your litter and stay on the trails."

Threats to nature

Minister O’Sullivan added that one of the biggest threats to nature at this time of year is uncontrolled fires.

"These fires destroy nature, damage the health and wellbeing of local communities, and place firefighters, NPWS staff and emergency crews at great personal risk when responding to these incidents," he said.

"When you’re enjoying the outdoors please be responsible, report any signs of fire immediately, follow safety advice and cooperate fully with emergency services."

Further advice includes to:

Stay on designated roads and footpaths, particularly because birds are nesting and nurturing their young;
Mind your step and take care to avoid disturbing ground nesting birds and sensitive habitats;
Give wildlife space. Keep your distance from nesting birds;
Be responsible for your dog. Keep your dog on a lead in areas where birds are nesting and where signage asks you to do so;
Pick up your litter and your dog’s poo – leave no trace. 

Nesting season

March 1 until August 31 is nesting season, a key time for birds and their habitats.

During this time, birds build nests, lay eggs and fledge their chicks.

It is an important time for breeding and the survival of many species.

Legislation is in place to protect wildlife during this time when they are most vulnerable. 

Vegetation such as hedgerows, trees and shrubs provide food and shelter for birds and wildlife.

Some of Ireland's most iconic and rare birds, such as the curlew and corncrake, are ground-nesting birds; which makes them especially vulnerable.

Meanwhile, seabirds such as puffins nest in areas which can be easily disturbed through human activity.