I have a friend in NH who keeps fancy breeds of chickens as pets, and also heritage breeds for eggs and meat.
The feathers from these birds are always in demand with fly tiers.
I'm happy to collect feathers to sell to help with the rescue expenses.
PS - how do I find buyers for the feathers? Advertise in the Classifieds?
That seems reasonable.
To be brutally honest, collecting feathers for sale to fly tyers isn't really a very lucrative business venture. The suppliers I've bought from sell patches of feathers with some still attached to a patch of skin. I've never seen individual feathers offered. If you want to get an idea, look online at the offerings and compare pricing.
On the other had, if you gather some volunteer feathers that have a certain pattern or color that catches your eye, they make great earrings when paired with .925 settings. Maybe do a consignment with someone who has a storefront at a farmers market.
I would need to learn how to do it (jewelry part) but that sounds like a grand idea! I even know a lady who is knowledgeable that might be able to guide me in making them.
oohhh you're right, I just looked online. Even Amazon is selling feathers 100 pieces for $7.99. I am not bending over 100 times to pick up feathers for even $10. I'll look into the jewelry aspect with regard to earrings. I am saving my Amazon parrot feathers to make a wreath similar to this one. The feather wreaths sell for a good amount but I will likely keep it as it will take years of feathers to make even a small one.To be brutally honest, collecting feathers for sale to fly tyers isn't really a very lucrative business venture. The suppliers I've bought from sell patches of feathers with some still attached to a patch of skin. I've never seen individual feathers offered. If you want to get an idea, look online at the offerings and compare pricing.
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The ones with the curly feathers (frizzle) need extra help to stay warm in Winter.
My nephew Greg built a coop for Ashley's fancy birds, which is weather tight and has a feather safe heating system.
