C.D.C. Cul-De-Canard Feathers

C.D.C. is an abbreviation of the French term “Cul De Canard” which roughly translated means “from the rump” or “butt of the duck”.  As the description implies these are the feathers that surround the preen gland on the back of the bird slightly ahead of the tail.  Ducks use secretions from this gland to condition and waterproof their feathers.  As a result the feathers surrounding the preen gland are of great value to fly tyers wanting to add buoyancy to their flies.

If C.D.C. isn’t a fly tying staple at your fly tying desk you are missing out on one of the truly great materials for fly tying.   Give it a try – it might just help you come up with a new “secret” fly pattern.

Select colors available from Hareline and Nature's Spirit.