This issue features four of the coastal birds found in Singapore

Slaty-breasted Rail (Rallus striatus) (10c) The Slaty-breasted Rall so named because of its grey breast, is a shy bird that prefers wet, secluded habitats such as overgrown ditches, marshes and mangroves. It survives on a varied diet that includes insects, molluscs, berries and vegetable matters, it is also found in India, South China, Taiwan and South-east Asia.

Black Bittern (Dupetor flavicollis) (35c) The Black Bittern, which is mainly black and reddish-buff in colour, is a solitary species that frequents low lying marshy areas and swamps. With its long pointed bill, it catches fish, frogs, crabs and insects for food. It is quite commonly found in Southern India and South-east Asia.

Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus) (50¢) The Brahminy Kite shows a preference for the vicinity of water, being commonly found in some coastal areas and swamps. The adult bird is unmistakable with its white head and breast and contrasting bright chestnut body and wings. Its diet consists mainly of frogs, crab, small snakes, fish and carrion It is widely distributed in tropical Asia, South-east Asia and the northern parts of coastal Australia.

Common Moorhen (Gallinula chlorophus) (75c) The Common Moorhen which has a body lke a small size hen, is commonly found in ponds, marshes and rivers. It eats mainly vegetable matters but will also feast on insect larvae, beetles and eggs of other birds. its distr bubion is nearly worldwide except Australia and lceland.