What is the difference between down and feathers?
Feathers on geese or ducks are the outer covering of the bird that makes up the protective and decorative plumage. Feathers have quills; they repel water and make it possible for the bird to fly. The down is underneath the feathers; it looks like fluffy little cotton balls. A down cluster has a round center called a plumule, with thousands of tiny fibers radiating from its core. These fibers link to other down plumules creating air pockets, which in turn trap heat. This provides the insulation that keeps the ducks and geese warm. Down is mainly found on the bellies and makes up only 12 – 15% of the bird’s overall feather weight. Down is washable. Feathers, which by their very nature repel water, are not. Most people who are allergic to feathers are not allergic to down.
