The Royal Canadian Mint recently issued the final coin in the beautiful 2007-2008 series of four oversized commemorative 25-cent coins exploring the birds of Canada.
The first coin in this series shows the Ruby-Throated Hummingbird. The Ruby-throated Hummingbird (Archilochus colubris) is the most common species that breeds in the eastern half of North America. Ruby-throats are intensely inquisitive and thus easily attracted to feeders, where males typically display aggressive territoriality toward rival hummers, other birds, and even insects such as bees, butterflies, and sphinx moths.
The second coin shows the Red-Breasted Nuthatch. Of the 17 nuthatch species found throughout North America and Eurasia, three reside in Canada. The Red-Breasted Nuthatch (Sitta canadensis) is the most widely distributed and is readily identified by its eye stripes and rust-colored underbody.
The third coin shows the Downy Woodpecker. Of the 13 woodpecker species living year-round in Canada, the Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) is the smallest and most common. At just 6-7 inches, it can excavate a nest cavity in a dead tree just 4 inches around. This gives the Downy more habitat options than larger woodpeckers that need bigger trees, and it often nests in suburban woods across southern Canada.
The fourth coin, just issued, shows the Northern Cardinal. The Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is one of the most brilliantly coloured songbirds in southeastern Canada, where it is a familiar sight throughout the year. The bright red male stands out against white snow and green trees.
On a side note, the Bank of Canada issued a 1986 series of bank notes often referred to as the "Birds of Canada" series.
Mint: Ottawa
Years: 2007-2008
Face value: 25 Cents
Finish: Specimen, with colored reverse
Composition: Three-ply nickel finish plated steel
Size: 35 mm
Weight: 12.61 grams
Mintage: 25,000 each
