Last Wednesday, Malaysia Post issued four new stamps depicting protected species, specifically mammals. The stamps depict the following animals:
30 sen – Yellow-Throated Martin (Mengkira/Martes fkavigula).
This species ranks as one of Malaysia’s most elegant and graceful mammals. It has a brown belly and flanks, while the chest and throat are a striking creamy-white to canary-yellow.
30 sen – Malay Weasel (Pulasan Tanah/Mustela nudipes).
Although small physically, it is like most weasels, a fearless predator which tackles birds, mice and frogs. It gives birth to 1-4 young ones. The species can be found in Peninsular Malaysia and Borneo only in small numbers.
50 sen – Hairy-Nosed Otter (Memerang Hidung Berbulu/Lutra sumatrana/Gray).
The freshwater and coastal areas, especially mangroves and peat swamp forests, are home to this species. It is rarely seen but has been encountered in Penang’s waters. The male has been observed to take part in the rearing of the young.
RM1 – Large Spotted Civet (Musang Titik Besar/Viverra megaspila/Blyth). This is believed to forage entirely on the ground as it has never been observed in the trees. It is a solitary mammal that tends to be aggressive towards members of its own species. They are found in lowland forests throughout the country and best spotted at night as they spend the day sleeping in thick vegetation.
