Why is shuttlecock also called a birdie in the game of badminton? 

Are you a badminton fan? Do you love playing this game? If the answer to both or even one is yes, then you are acquainted with a shuttlecock. probably aware of the term birdy. We all know that badminton is played with a shuttlecock, a lightweight object, conical in shape with a cork (rubber-covered nose), instead of a ball, which is the case in most other racquet games. However, not many people are familiar with the term birdie, that is alternatively used to mean a shuttlecock.  Let’s find out for about birdies.  

The secret behind the alternative name 
It’s a no brainer! A shuttlecock is called a birdie as it is made up of bird feathers, usually from goose or duck, pinned down into a base. Talk about birds of a feather flock together! It also has something to do with its appearance. When a shuttlecock is smacked with a racquet and is mid-air, it is something identical to a bird in flight. Others also believe that the wheezing to and fro motion of a shuttlecock during an intense game also makes it reminiscent of a flying bird. Hence, the name, birdie. While the rest of the world prefers shuttlecock, both Americans and Canadians prefer the term ‘birdie.’  

Types of birdies 
There are primarily two types of substances that birdies are made of: Natural feather and synthetic. While synthetic is preferred by amateurs, professionals often opt for the ones made of natural feather.  

Feather birdie: Mostly white in colour, the cork in a feather birdie holds the feathers and often comes in distinct colours. A feather birdie is known to spin rapidly, and helps in swift serves and firm net shots. It is also lighter and has a solid impact. However, due to their delicate nature, they are prone to damage.  

Synthetic birdie: Also known as plastic birdie, synthetic birdie is made up of either plastic or nylon and is known for its durability. However, it is not known for its speed and is heavier, which is usually perfect for beginners. Having said that, it doesn’t have a great impact when hit. Unlike feather birdies, they come in wide variety of shades.  

The inception of badminton in India 
You will be surprised to know that badminton originated in colonised India in the hands of the British. They were bored and wanted to invent a game to spend their free time in a fun way. This is when, during the 1860s, two games were born in Pune, Maharashtra: Battledore and shuttlecock. However, it was much later in 1873, that the name badminton emerged when the Duke of Beaufort returned back to England and introduced the brand-new sport in his county estate called ‘Badminton House.’