I have always enjoyed using paper as a medium to create, but especially when it comes to feathers.
 
Before I create a paper sculpture of a bird I research it from head to toe gathering information on the sizes, proportions, colours, textures and feather shapes. From here I can determine what colour paper I need to use.
 
The main body is carved from foam or wood with a metal armature for support. Some parts have to be made removable for ease of transport such as large tails or open wings. 
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I sculpt the feet, beak and eye lids using an epoxy putty which can then be painted when it cures. 

I paint the majority of the feathers before I glue them onto the body. As there are a lot of frayed edges and overlapping textures, paint can clog and saturate the final look. Some areas need to be painted once applied if there is a subtle blend of colour across feathers. 

Once painted, each feather is cut and glued onto the main body. I start at the tail and work my way upwards until I reach the head, overlapping each layer as I go.