(1983) MiNo. 2587 - 2592 ** - Czechoslovakia - Nature conservation in Czechoslovakia

Note: 50 hal. - Pine Foxglove and Rock Violet: Two Treasures of Nature

Nature is full of fascinating connections and stories hidden in the unassuming corners of our landscape. One such example is the pine lichen (Saturnia pavonia) and the rock violet (Viola lutea), two distinct yet remarkable creatures of European flora and fauna.

Pine Foxglove - a jewel among butterflies

The pine butterfly, also known as the night butterfly, is characterised by its beautiful wing pattern, dominated by its characteristic "eyes". These ornamental spots not only repel predators, but also attract the attention of people admiring it in the wild. The butterfly is mainly found in meadows, woodland edges and heathland, where its caterpillars love the leaves of heather or blackthorn.

Rock Fritillary - the colourful beauty of the mountains

Rock Violet, an inconspicuous mountain plant, impresses with its purple, yellow or blue flowers. This perennial adorns grassy hillsides and mountain meadows, where it becomes food for pollinators as well as inspiration for nature lovers. Its ability to grow in the harsh conditions of the mountain environment symbolizes the resilience and beauty of nature.

Both of these species are representatives of biodiversity that is important to protect. As we observe these treasures, let us not forget to respect their environment so that they can be enjoyed not only by us, but also by future generations.

Note: 1 Kčs - Green Water Lily (Rana esculenta) and Dwarf Water Lily (Nymphaea pygmaea)

The green skylark (Rana esculenta) is an amphibian distributed throughout Europe. This species is known for its ability to live in freshwater environments such as ponds, lakes and wetlands. The green leapfrog is the result of a cross between two other species of frogs, the scurvy leapfrog (Pelophylax ridibundus) and the short-legged leapfrog (Pelophylax lessonae). This hybrid species is valued not only for its ecological importance but also as a culinary delicacy in some areas.

Dwarf water lily (Nymphaea pygmaea), on the other hand, is a small aquatic plant native to Asia. This water lily is distinguished by its small, elegant flowers and compact growth, making it an ideal choice for ornamental ponds and small bodies of water. The flowers can be white, pink or pale yellow and often open on sunny days. The plant also provides shelter for small aquatic organisms, including tadpoles and insects.

Green water lily and dwarf water lily can form a harmonious community in garden ponds. The water lily uses the water lily leaves as a platform for resting or catching insects, while the water lilies contribute to maintaining water quality and the aesthetic appearance of the pond. This combination is a perfect example of biodiversity and balance in the natural environment.

Note: 2 Kčs - Lily of the valley + spruce branches

The common curlew (Loxia curvirostra) is a fascinating bird known for its unique cross-shaped beak. This beak shape is adapted to easily remove seeds from the cones of pine and spruce trees, which are the main food of this species. The common curlew is a frequent visitor to coniferous forests, where it often seeks food on the branches of spruce trees, which are an ideal source for it.

When the Curlew perches on a spruce branch, its strong, cross-shaped bill allows it to easily access the seeds, which are located deep within the cones. This bird has the ability to adapt to different types of coniferous trees, making them important to the balance of the ecosystems in which they live. The branches of the spruce tree, which are covered with cones, provide not only food, but also a hiding and nesting place for many other species of birds.

Thus, the curvebill is not only unique in its adaptation to specific food sources, but also plays an important role in maintaining the health of coniferous forests.

Note: 3,60 Kčs - Ashen Heron (Ardea cinerea)

The Ashy Egret is a large species of bird in the heron family, found in Europe, Asia and northwest Africa. This majestic bird can reach a height of up to 1 metre and a wingspan of up to 2 metres. Its plumage is predominantly grey with white and black tints, giving it an elegant appearance. Ashy egrets have a long neck and a strong, golden bill, which they use to catch fish and smaller aquatic animals.

This species is known for its patience when hunting. It often stands in silence for long minutes, waiting for the right opportunity to catch its prey. Herons prefer shallow water such as lakes, rivers or ponds, but can also be found on the shores of the sea.

Ashy Egrets are known for their ability to migrate long distances, heading south in autumn to spend the winter months in warmer areas. Their nests can be found in tree branches or on tall poles, where females lay 3-5 eggs. After hatching, the father provides food and protection for the young.

Although the Ashen Egret is considered a common bird in many areas, its population can be threatened by pollution of water bodies and loss of natural habitat.

Note: 5 Kčs - Lynx lynx

The island lynx (Lynx lynx) is one of the most beautiful and secretive predators of European forests. This medium-sized feline mammal is known for its ability to move with a silent stride and its highly developed eyesight, which enables it to hunt in the dusk and at night.

The island lynx has a distinctive appearance, with long ears topped with black bristles and a thick coat that changes colour with the seasons. In winter, its coat is light and dense, while in summer it shifts to darker shades. This beast is adapted to life in cold and wooded areas, where it hides in the shadows of trees and bushes.

It is a solitary creature that carves out an extensive territory, which it carefully protects. Its main prey are roe deer, deer, wild boar and smaller animals such as hares and birds. The lynx hunts its prey silently and stealthily, making it a master of the night hunt.

Although the lynx once inhabited a wide area of Europe, its population has declined severely in the past due to hunting and loss of natural habitat. In recent decades, however, the lynx has begun to make a comeback, thanks largely to conservation efforts and projects to secure its habitat. This comeback is proof that nature can regenerate if given the chance.

The island red fox is a symbol of the beauty and strength of Europe's forests, and its presence in nature is important not only for maintaining the balance of the ecosystem but also for preserving biodiversity.

Note: 7 Kčs - European Deer (Cervus elaphus)

The European stag (Cervus elaphus) is a majestic animal that is one of the largest and most famous representatives of the cervids. It is found in forest areas of Europe, Asia and North Africa, and is relatively common in the Czech Republic, especially in forest reserves and nature parks.

Famous for their massive antlers, male deer can weigh up to 300 kg and reach a height of up to 1.3 metres at the withers. The antlers, which are shed and regrown annually, are used by males not only in fights over females, but also as a symbol of strength and health.

The European deer is an herbivore and its diet includes a wide variety of plants, including grasses, shrubs, leaves and fruit. It is an animal that is very sensitive to environmental changes and requires quiet woodland areas for reproduction. During the rutting season, in autumn, males display, emitting a characteristic "roar" and producing strong sound signals to attract females and deter competitors.

Deer have an important role in ecosystems, where they contribute to maintaining the balance between flora and fauna. However, in some areas where their populations are too high, they can cause damage to forest stands, leading to the regulation of their numbers.

Overall, the European deer is a symbol of wildlife and is a popular object of hunting and observation in the wild.