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Birds of a Feather by Temple Pat

Created by: Temple Pat

Birds of a Feather is a captivating card trick that demonstrates the magical principle of like attracting like. The performer shows three cards of the same value (e.g., Aces or sevens) and, after mixing them with other cards in the deck, magically causes them to rise to the top together. This trick is perfect for close-up magic, requiring minimal setup and no sleight of hand, making it ideal for beginners. The phrase 'birds of a feather flock together' adds a charming narrative to the performance, enhancing audience engagement.

Key features

  • No sleight of hand required, making it accessible to beginners

  • Can be learned and performed in under two minutes

  • Uses a key card principle for easy execution

  • Encourages audience interaction and engagement

  • Includes a memorable phrase to enhance the presentation

Pros

  • Simple and easy to learn

  • Highly effective and visual

  • Great for beginners and experienced magicians alike

  • Encourages creative presentation and storytelling

Cons

  • May be too simple for advanced magicians looking for complex sleight of hand

  • Relies on a specific setup that must be followed precisely

Effect

The "Birds of a Feather" trick creates the illusion that three randomly selected cards of the same value (such as Aces or sevens) magically gather together at the top of the deck after being mixed with other cards. The performer uses the phrase "birds of a feather flock together" to frame the effect, making it appear as though the cards naturally reunite through magic.

Full Details

The trick relies on a simple but clever setup. The performer memorizes a key card (often the third card from the top of the deck) and locates the other matching cards. These cards are strategically placed within the deck before being mixed with random cards. A magical gesture, such as a snap or wave, triggers the reveal, showing that the three matching cards have risen to the top.

No advanced sleight of hand is required, making it accessible to beginners. The trick emphasizes audience interaction, allowing spectators to shuffle the deck beforehand to enhance the illusion of fairness.

Who Should Consider the Trick

This trick is ideal for beginners or magicians looking for a quick, easy-to-learn effect with strong visual impact. It works well in casual settings, close-up performances, or as an opener in a card routine. Those who enjoy interactive magic with minimal setup will find it particularly useful.

Information on How Difficult It Is to Perform

The trick is rated as ultra-beginner level. According to CardMechanic, it can be learned in under two minutes, with no complex moves or memorization beyond identifying a key card. The method relies on logical card placement rather than sleight of hand, making it one of the simplest tricks to perform effectively.

What Magicians Say

  • CardMechanic describes it as "the simplest trick on my channel" and highlights its quick learning curve, stating, "you can easily learn this in less than a minute."
  • Another reviewer praises its simplicity, noting that "no sleight of hand is required" and that the phrase "birds of a feather flock together" enhances the presentation.
  • Phill Evans, in his discussion of favorite routines, mentions combining "Birds of a Feather" with other effects for a stronger routine, showing its versatility.

The trick is frequently recommended for its instant impact and ease of performance, making it a solid choice for magicians at any skill level.

What people are saying about Birds of a Feather

AlakazamMagicUK says...

I combine this with part of alakazam's confusing coins for my birds of a feather routine an Old English penny is dropped into a coin purse with an American half dollar the purse is given to the spectator I hold an English half crown in my hand and ask The Spectator to shake the purse [...] the penny is now seen with the half crown in my hand and when The Spectator opens the purse it seemed to have vanished with only the half dollar left in the purse.

CardMechanic says...

This is a **tutorial** video demonstrating a simple yet effective card trick called 'Birds of a Feather,' popularized by **Temple Pat**. The **CardMechanic** aims to present a beginner-friendly version that can be learned in under two minutes, emphasizing ease of performance and audience engagement.

Review videos

Tutorial videos