A new set of stamps featuring five species of owls is being issued by the Royal Mail.

The 10 stamps feature images of the barn owl, little owl, tawny owl, short-eared own and long-eared owl.

Royal Mail spokesman Philip Parker said: “Owls are among our most iconic bird species, with their soundless flight and eerie calls, and our new stamps celebrate their beauty.”

The stamps can be pre-ordered from Wednesday and will be on sale at Post Offices from May 11.