Mallard, Teal, Wedgeon, Gadwall are water fowl birds that produce barred feathers (in varying degrees depending upon the bird) which provide a pleasing natural element to patterns. The feathers can come died, but the natural tones are most pleasing to me for streamer patterns. These feathers are not wound on as a hackle (unless for larger flies like steelhead or salmon patterns). Here is a simple tutorial on how to apply the feather around the shank and maintain the length.
SwittersB & Exploring 
I have found that the retrices of owls (porpyrins) work well for natural material. They change to reds and purples with the ultraviolet rays of the sun in the water, and I have had great success with this. The retrices are of good quality if I can procure them in the wild and not second-hand. I coat these with a silicone spray and use for streamers and the color effects make it unnecessary to die them. Natural is preferrable for streamer patterns, at least to my liking.
I tied a Spruce fly pattern with it and a Muddy Minnow. They work well, despite the oddity. For the Spruce Fly pattern I make a red body and replace the badger with the owl. I don’t have photos like you Switters, I just never have photographed mine, but then I am a bit camera shy myself. I do have one photo of me and streamside with a client, and if you would like a small detail piece I could include it. Thanks for the nod.
JB
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Well, I would appreciate a piece. I have noted your excellent YouTube tying pieces. I have never heard of “the retrices of owls (porpyrins)”. So, this will be interesting to research and learn about. Thanks for the advice…
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