Landrail

[Traditionalist]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corn_Crake

Landrail or Corncrake ( Crex crex) feathers were used for a number of flies, especially sedge ( caddis) imitations, and these flies were then called "rails", especially in Ireland. Some feathers were considered indispensable for various soft hackles. There are many references in older books. The bird is now protected. Various substitutes have been used, mainly starling dyed brown, or jay marginal coverts. The bird is a rare summer visitor to the UK. This is a picture of a stuffed Corncrake, donated by Gary Nicholson.