One of the most common substitutes for this coveted feather is the kingfisher.
You can replace the Chatterer (Continga) with an African Roller. Alternatively, you can utilize small white duck feathers or the white feathers from a Chinese Pheasant dyed Kingfisher Blue.
The Spangled Cotinga, scientifically known as Cotinga cayana (Linnaeus), inhabits various regions across South and Central America, from eastern Colombia to northern Bolivia and across parts of Brazil. These birds often perch atop dead trees in their habitat but remain mostly silent unless startled by predators.
They share habitats with other species like the Purple-breasted Cotinga and the Plum-throated Cotinga, each differing slightly in their feather shades and shapes. Seven species of Blue Chatterers exist, including the Turquoise Cotinga, Natterer’s Cotinga, Plum-throated Cotinga, Purple-breasted Cotinga, and Banded Cotinga. Their feathers, while distinct in color and tip shapes, can be used interchangeably in fly tying.
The Spangled Cotinga’s feathers, known for their versatility, have been traditionally used in various fly patterns, from tails and veilings to cheeks and hackles in flies like Holland’s Fancy and Major Traherne’s Quinchat.
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