On 2 February, Åland Post issues a new series of franking labels depicting four musically gifted small birds: European robin, common chaffinch, willow warbler and Eurasian blackcap. The songbirds were designed by Swedish illustrator Anna Handell who makes her debut as artist for Åland Post.

The Åland franking labels are Anna Handell’s first postal labels and, as a bird lover, the theme suited her perfectly. The robin was her favourite.

“I loved giving the four bird species each their own life and personality. I wanted to create explicit and easily accessible motifs, tailored to the habitat of each bird species, but also offer the attentive viewer tiny and entertaining details. The robin is a seemingly amiable bird with a teeny-tiny beak and stick-like legs. It has such a vigorous personality, I think.”

The European robin (Erithacus rubecula) may be recognized by its orange-red face and breast. Its crystal-clear chirping with unpredictable changes of pace is often heard from the treetops. On the label, it sits on the ground surrounded by common fern.

The willow warbler (Phylloscopus trochilus) is our most common bird species. The willow warbler is more heard than seen, seeing that it prefers low bramble where it can stay hidden. It is a small, quick and greenish-grey bird with a soft, melancholy sounding song.

The common chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs) is our second most common bird species which, unlike the willow warbler, has a powerful rhythmic song with a trill at the end. The chaffinch is recognized by its two contrasting white wing bars. In the motif, it has landed in a sea of wood sorrel.

The Eurasian blackcap (Sylvia atricapilla) also hides in the brambles and shrubs. The male has the black cap and his song starts low-key to end in a loud high-pitched crescendo. Sometimes, it is heard mocking other birds.

Date of issue:  2 February 2021                                                                                                         
Artist:  Anna Handell
Design: Julia Perander /Strax                                 
Denomination of series: 4 x €1.90
Price FDC : €8.60
Size : 56 x 25 mm
Paper: 40 gms thermal paper
Process: 4-colour offset
Printer :  Walsall Security Printers

Order franking labels and first day cover at webshop.alandpost.com, by post to Åland Post Stamps, P.O. box 1100, AX-22111 Mariehamn, Åland, Finland, e-mail stamps(a)alandpost.com or telephone: +358 18 636 641.