I thought there are an article way back on how the feathers and fur was done for Ice Age using Sprites.

The feathers won't "act" like feathers, but thats a super-fast way of getting them done.

Also, are you sure you need that amount of detail?

Have you thought about the tutorials around the web regarding using PaintFX control curves for hair?
That technique could be modified for your needs as well.

It really depends on your shot needs.

Can you give us a shot-by-shot breakdown by any chance?

Thanks.