Protect Pollinators, five stamps that pay tribute to monarch butterflies and western honeybees, will be released by USPS Aug. 3.
The stamps depict the insects pollinating a variety of North American plants, including the coneflower, golden ragwort, zinnia, New England aster and goldenrod.
Monarch butterflies and western honeybees are two species that help grow many of the continent’s agriculture through pollination.
Pollinators — such as insects, birds and bats — collect pollen from flowers and transfer it to other flowers to develop seeds.
Crop pollination by insects can be valued at more than $15 billion to the U.S. economy each year, according to research by Cornell University.
Declines in pollinator populations from pesticides, land-use changes and agricultural practices are a reminder that these creatures need mindful human protection.
Planting gardens with native flowers or heirloom varieties of fruits and vegetables can help butterflies, bees and other pollinators thrive.
The Protect Pollinators stamps will be dedicated in Richmond, VA, and available for purchase at usps.com and Post Offices nationwide. The Aug. 2 news release has more information.