What are the most popular materials used for dry fly tails these days? Originally the material suggested was "Spade hackle" barbs. But today's chickens don't have them. Microfibbets and some paintbrush fibers seem acceptable but I personally like bleached or dyed mink tail fibers except they are hard to come by. Premium Sable artist brush fibers are nice but you have to tap into your IRA to afford them.
Maybe some thoughtful folks could get a bunch of old fur coats and set up a new product line.