The number of bird stamps that have been issued over time has been estimated to be as many as perhaps forty thousand. That’s a huge and probably impractical number to collect! Some, indeed perhaps many bird stamp enthusiasts find that as they develop their collections they will begin to specialise. Like any other form of philately bird thematics have plenty of areas of specialism. A specialism might be to collect the species of one country or one continent or even one part of a continent. Others might want to specialise on a particular species – popular ones include Penguins, Owls, Birds of Prey or Parrots. But there are also members who collect only flightless birds, or seabirds or wildfowl. And some might collect just one particular species – Puffins, Capercaillie, Hoopoes or Quetzals are examples. But there are others forms of specialism. Some collect covers – perhaps first day of issue covers or normal, postally used items of stationery that have bird stamps. Some might have a specific interest in cachets on covers or perhaps on postmarks or even meter marks with bird designs. Some might only seek the bird stamps of a particular illustrator or engraver of which there are many. And some might choose to focus on the unusual – locals, Cinderella’s or forgeries. There is not a defined list and anyone can choose to focus on an aspects that others have not thought to specialise in previously. Pioneers are welcome!

The simple answer is that the choice is up to you. There are really no “rules,” no do’s and don’ts with thematic collecting. You will quickly discover for yourself what interests you most and what you want to collect. It is probable that over time you will develop your own specific areas of interest. For example, many members are also keen ornithologists and will only collect identifiable bird species. However, some might also include domestic birds in their collections; others might include symbolic birds such as Doves of peace or coats-of-arms. Some only collect used stamps, others only mint. Some might collect covers, and others seek out mini-sheets. There are no hard lines and it is really up to you to decide what aspect of bird stamps you want to build your collection on. Our advice: Go with what interests you.