![animated nature scene with a goose](https://wearyourownskin.peta2.com/wp-content/plugins/pgb-animal-scene/src/images/goose/animal-goose.png)
not feathers.
Geese like Gustavo have strong relationships and emotions. In their social circles, which consist of multiple families, these empathetic, tight-knit birds look after one another. They’ll often refuse to leave the side of a sick or injured partner or chick.
Geese mourn lost loved ones, but in the down industry, workers kill birds’ friends and family members right in front of them. They are kept in filthy, feces-filled enclosures with no way to stay clean or choose a mate. Birds shriek in pain and terror as workers hold them down and tear out their feathers while they’re still alive, plucking them so hard that their skin can rip open, leaving gaping wounds that are crudely stitched back together –all without any painkillers.
![a lizard](https://wearyourownskin.peta2.com/wp-content/plugins/pgb-wta-columns/src/images/animal_lizard.png)
![a duck](https://wearyourownskin.peta2.com/wp-content/plugins/pgb-wta-columns/src/images/animal_duck.png)
what to avoid
- Down feathers: often from ducks
- Goose down: taken from birds’ underlayer
- Duck down
- Down fill: used in jackets and bedding
- Premium down: sold as high-quality
- “Responsible” down: still harms animals
- Ostrich, peacock, turkey, “marabou” or other feathers used for decoration
- Recycled down: still a product of cruelty
what to buy
- Synthetic down: cruelty-free warm insulation
- Down alternative: eco-friendly and fluffy material
- Sorona: partially made from renewable plant sources
- Plant-based fill, like eucalyptus or bamboo
- KAPOK: plant-based and lightweight fiber
- PrimaLoft: advanced synthetic insulation material
- Thinsulate: lightweight and warm synthetic filling
- Plumtech: high-performance synthetic down option
- Ecodown or Ecoplume: made from 100% recycled post-consumer plastic bottles
- Recycled polyester: lightweight and durable material
- Tencel: sustainable and plant-based fiber
SHOP
Intelligent, social birds don’t want to die for down. You can ensure that no birds suffer and die for your clothing by refusing to wear them and choosing down-free, vegan-friendly materials instead.