COLUMBUS, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife has officially released the 2026 Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp, offering conservationists a way to directly fund the protection of the state’s most vulnerable species.
This year’s collectible stamp features a stunning photograph of a killdeer and its fledgling, a vocal and charismatic shorebird familiar to many Ohioans.
Award-Winning Photography
The image gracing the 2026 stamp was captured by Jennifer Beck of Lyndhurst, a two-time winner of the annual Legacy Stamp photo competition. Beck, who previously won in 2022 with an image of a bald eagle, beat out a field of photographers to showcase the killdeer—a bird famous for its “kill-deer” call and its clever “broken-wing” act used to distract predators from its nest.
Where Your $15 Goes
The Legacy Stamp is more than a collector’s item; it is a vital financial tool for Ohio’s ecosystems. For $15, purchasers receive the stamp and a commemorative card, with proceeds distributed as follows:
- Southern Wings Program: $1 from every stamp is donated to protect the tropical overwintering habitats of migratory birds that pass through Ohio. To date, this initiative has contributed over $4 million to conservation projects in Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean.
- Wildlife Diversity Fund: The remaining proceeds support habitat restoration, research, and the conservation of endangered and threatened species within Ohio.
- Member Perks: Stamp holders are eligible for discounts at nine of Ohio’s State Park lodges.
About the Killdeer
Though technically a shorebird, the killdeer is uniquely adapted to human environments. They are often spotted in wetlands, but are just as likely to be found nesting in gravel driveways, parking lots, or grassy lawns. They are easily identified by the two distinct black bands across their breast and their bright, rusty-colored tails.
How to Purchase
Ohioans can support these conservation efforts by purchasing the stamp through two primary channels:
- Online: Visit wildohio.gov.
- Mobile: Use the HuntFish OH mobile app.
Looking Ahead: 2027 Contest
Photographers can begin preparing for the 18th annual Photo Contest this summer. The Division of Wildlife has announced that mammals will be the subject for the 2027 stamp.
By purchasing a stamp, residents ensure that the Division of Wildlife can continue its mission to improve fish and wildlife resources for sustainable use and appreciation by all Ohioans.
