Bird flu hits badminton

David Pescovitz 9:15 am Mon Jul 31, 2006

The quality of premium badminton shuttlecocks have suffered from a feather shortage resulting from bird flu. Apparently, the best of these birdies are imported from China where a single goose might provide only two feathers. From the Los Angeles Times:

"I believe the problem is potentially considerable," said Torsten Berg, the official bird flu spokesman for the International Badminton Federation.

The shortage has been particularly felt in Southern California, home to some of the country's best players, coaches and clubs.

Prices on premium shuttlecocks, which cost up to $25 for a tube of a dozen, have risen 25% in the last few months.

Manufacturers are competing for the limited feathers, and players are scrambling to buy the best birdies in bulk, further restricting supply.

Link (Thanks, Paul Saffo!)

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