
Domestic Goose (often used in Down products), potentially Graylag Goose or Swan
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Anseriformes, Family: Anatidae, Genus: Anser, Species: Anser anser
Family: Anatidae (Ducks, Geese, and Swans)
- Shape
- Symmetrical, oval, and rounded; lacks a rigid structure at the tip.
- Size
- Approximately 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5-4 cm). This is small and typical for insulating feathers found in commercial down products.
- Rarity
- Very Common; ubiquitous in commercial down-filled jackets, pillows, and comforters.
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Description
This is a soft, insulating body feather characterized by its loose, fluffy structure. Unlike flight feathers, its purpose is thermodynamic regulation, trapping heat close to the bird's body. The bird it belongs to is typically a large waterfowl with a heavy body and long neck.
Colour & Pattern
Uniformly grayish-brown or 'dusty' taupe. No distinct banding or marks. The color is consistent with natural, unbleached down from domestic gray goose varieties.
Barb Structure
Plumulaceous (downy) for the majority of the feather. The barbs are long, flexible, and lack the interlocking barbules (hooklets) that create a solid vane.
Texture & Surface
Extremely soft, wispy, and lightweight. It has a matte finish and lacks the oily waterproofing of outer contour feathers.
Key Features
Plumulaceous (fluffy) barbs throughout, thin flexible rachis, small size, and lack of a structured pennaceous vane.
Habitat
Widely distributed in agricultural settings (domestic) or wetlands, lakes, and marshes (wild).
Geographic Range
Global distribution due to domestication; wild Graylag geese are found throughout Europe and Asia.
Ecological Role
Provides critical thermoregulation for waterfowl, allowing them to survive in freezing water and climates.
Similar Species
Domestic Duck (Anas platyrhynchos domesticus) down is similar but often smaller and white; wild Canada Goose down is darker.
Interesting Facts
Down is one of the most efficient natural insulators in the world because it creates thousands of tiny air pockets that trap warm air and retain heat.
Condition Notes
Good; showing typical compressed barbs often seen after being removed from a stuffed garment or bedding element.