The Dove

[Donald Nicolson]

A few years ago, I had an interest in using a european
bird called a "wood pigeon". This is a very common bird,
indeed a real pest to gardeners and farmers.
It is a bit larger than the rock-dove which is the source
of all the worlds city pigeons. I thought it odd that I could
not find any hackles used in all the recipes, going back to
the year 'dot'. I contacted "Cookshill" and was told that
there was no demand as the hackles were too stiff, brittle
and broke too easily. I followed up with a look in Skues -
"Fly Dressers Birds", which I had copied into my web-site.
Pages 81 to 96 inclusive. It can be found within the "Skues"
article. Here is what he said on pigeon/dove hackles.
Quote
Pigeon, Wood. - This bird affords a number of beautiful blue
feathers of colours that look admirable, whether one resorts
to neck or wing, or back. But there is a harshness, a stiffness
and opacity, and a tendency to split about the feathers which
are characteristics common to all the feathers of the pigeon
tribe, rendering them very disappointing to the dresser.
Still, they are given in some of the books, and, without
recommending them, the writer feels bound to give them.
For all purposes for which the lighter coloured feathers
of the woodpigeon can be used, the feathers of the common
gulls and sea swallows are greatly to be preferred.

Pigeon, Domestic, and other Varieties. - The hackle from the
glossy neck of a ruddy brown pigeon is used for a Derbyshire
pattern called the Whistler. The wings of white varieties can
be used for the Coachman and other white winged flies.
But see remarks under “Pigeon, Wood.”
I did not pursue pigeon hackles any further, but if you have
found them useful, excellent and tight lines.

Skues on Pigeon - http://donaldnicolson.webplus.net/page91.html

Skues - Fly Dressers Birds -
http://donaldnicolson.webplus.net/page81.html

[William Anderson]

What an interesting conversation. I know we've talked about these hackles a number of times but this is really good information. Eric managed to use them well and I believe we've concluded the covert and undercover feathers from the wings were the best choices. The colors and texture of some of the hackles would make a nice little rolled wing (if you're into that kind of thing). There's always something to try.

[DOUGSDEN]

Dearest Swellcat and Old Hat,
Thanks guys for the info. I will pass on the Dove Taco's but it does sound kinda interesting! I will try and harvest some birds after Ohio deer season next week. My wife calls that time "The men's insanity". There is a grain of truth to what she has quipped!
Wings for everyone....
Doug

[letumgo]

Go gettum' Doug!