Some people have peacock feathers in their homes, and there is some discussion of whether they are bad luck or not. The discussion of bad luck has to do with the “eye” in the peacock feather we all know, and whether it can bring the evil eye into the house. I think the source of the peacock feathers has more to do with the good or bad luck involved, in that naturally shed feathers from domesticated peacocks will bring good karma and those from other sources are bad, karmicly speaking. If the bird died to furnish the feathers, how can any good come from them.

Peafowl, the inclusive name for peacocks and peahens, are native to parts of India and Eastern Asia. There are several species, but the one every one knows is the blue iridescent Indian peacock. It is the national bird of India, and protected. Feathers shed naturally in fall are legally gathered and sold, as are the feathers from domesticated peacocks in other parts of the world. It is possible to tell shed feathers from those removed from a carcass, but the best bet is to buy yours from a peacock farmer. This provides the farmer money for feed, etc., without harming the peacocks.

When looking at feathers for sale, there a number of variations available. The eyed feather can be purchased at full length, which is from 30 to 50 inches. You can buy the feathers already cut to shorter lengths as well. Some people sell the very end of the eye feathers, and also sell the shafts of the long feathers after the remaining barbs are removed. (For what I cannot tell you.) The long eye feather with the actual eye part removed are sold as “butterfly” feathers (and, frankly, are not attractive). The tail cover also has numerous green feathers that are one sided and are called swords. These can be from 14 to 40 inches long, and come in right-handed and left-handed. The plumes from the peacocks head crest, and basically all the iridescent feathers on a bird are sold to crafters and makers of peacock feather items. Items made from feathers, not necessarily peacock feathers, include fans, boas, wreathes, masquerade masks, hair barrettes, “flowers”, pens and hats.

The white peacock is a naturally occurring melanistic variant and not albinism. Peacock feather are also dyed or bleached, for some reason, so you can get them in red, yellow or tan if you do not like the natural green and blue colors.

As with all feathers used in decorative arrangements or objects, careful handling is required to keep the feather looking its best. Dust should be removed using short blasts from the canned compressed air sold for such uses. The human touch seldom makes a problem better, and usually makes it worse. If some of the barbettes get mussed, use a sewing needle or pin to try to straighten them out. Mostly, place feathered objects where people cannot get to them to touch, as the feathers are somewhat irresistible.

If you are interested in having your own peacock, and live way out in the country, read up on them. I found this site useful and comprehensive: www.peafowl.com. They have feathers from domestic birds for sale, as well as eggs, books, DVDs and other information, including the fact that there is a need for places to place rescued peacocks. You can turn your interest into a way to make a little money and do a service for your larger community.

* * * Peacock feathers are frequently used in masquerade ball masks. * * *

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