Tell Hermès and Prada to Ditch Exotic Skins
- by: PETA
- recipient: Hermès and Prada
In September 2015, PETA US investigators travelled to South Africa to document what happens inside the largest ostrich slaughter companies in the world, including the exclusive supplier of ostrich skins for Hermès Birkin bags. Investigators saw workers force terrified ostriches into stun boxes – causing many to slip and fall – and then slit their throats. The ostriches next in line watched helplessly as their flockmates were killed right in front of them.
These slaughterhouses supply ostrich skins to Hermès, Prada, Louis Vuitton and other top European fashion houses. Feathers, some of which are ripped out of the ostriches' skin while they are fully conscious, are used in costumes for the Moulin Rouge and festivals like Brazil's Rio Carnival as well as in feather dusters, boas and accessories. Ostrich meat is also sold throughout South Africa and exported primarily to Europe.
While ostriches can live for more than 40 years, farmed ostriches are slaughtered when they are just 1 year old. And while young ostriches typically stay with their parents for up to three years, ostriches raised on factory farms will never even get to meet their parents.
Take action to help these gentle, curious birds.
Join us in putting pressure on luxury fashion houses to remove ostrich and other exotic skins from its collections.
Dear [Decision maker],
I just learned about PETA's exposé documenting the cruelty to ostriches on South African farms and slaughterhouses for high-end fashions.
After learning how alligators and crocodiles are abused by companies that supply skins to Hermès and Prada, I was appalled to learn that young ostriches are also killed to make bags, boots, watch bands and other accessories. PETA US documented that ostriches are forced into restraining devices, many slipping and falling while being violently handled, electrically stunned and slaughtered by having their throats cut.
[Your comments here]
There is no justification for supporting such blatant cruelty. Please stop buying and selling accessories made from exotic skins immediately. Thank you.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
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