This stamp is one of four that celebrates four of winter’s winged beauties: the black-capped chickadee (Poecile atricapillus), the northern cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis), the blue jay (Cyanocitta cristata) and the red-bellied woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus).

In the dead of winter, when trees have shed their leaves and snow has blanketed the ground, the lively sights and sounds of resident birds can be a welcome relief. For serious birders or casual nature lovers alike, spotting these beautiful creatures in backyards, parks, and forests is a treat during the year’s coldest months.

One of the loudest and most colorful birds of eastern back yards and woodlots, the blue jay is unmistakable. Intelligent and adaptable, it may feed on almost anything, and it is quick to take advantage of bird feeders. Besides, their raucous jay! jay! calls, blue jays make a variety of musical sounds, and they can do a remarkable imitation of the scream of a red-shouldered hawk. Not always conspicuous, they slip furtively through the trees when tending their own nest or going to rob the nest of another bird.