Niue Birds 2011

While many fascinating birds call Niue home, this bird-themed stamp issue features three of Niue's favourite species.

The individual stamps in this issue are as follows:

$1.70 Miti

The miti (Aplonis tabuensis) is a sociable bird that moves about as part of a family group. Distinguishable by it's stubby bill and mainly brown feathering, the miti can often be heard whistling as it perches on branches above the rainforest canopy.

$2.00 Heahea

The heahea (Lalage maculosa) is an active and noisy bird that is also one of Niue's most approachable birds.  With a variety of calls this fast flying black-and-white bird is also distinguishable by the its black eye-stripe and narrow white tail tip.

$2.40 Kulukulu

The kulukulu (Ptilinopus porphyraceus) is very distinctive and tropical in colouring, with a green and grey body with hints of bright yellow.  What makes it really stand out though is its crimson crown. These doves tend to live in a pair or alone, and feed mainly on berries.

This vibrant collection also includes a shaped miniature sheet produced in the shape of two hega (Vini australis).  Bright green in colour, these parrots are adorned with a blue/purple crown and a red chin, throat, cheeks and upper belly. Similar miniature sheets sold out quickly last year, so be sure you don't miss out on your own brightly coloured parrots!