6701.00 - Skins and other parts of birds with their feathers or down, feathers, parts of feathers, down and articles thereof (other than goods of heading 0505 and worked quills and scapes):

Heading 6701 encompasses a diverse range of products derived from birds, specifically their plumage and related parts. This category includes skins and other bird parts adorned with feathers or down, as well as feathers, feather parts, and down itself. It also covers articles manufactured from these materials, with a crucial exclusion for goods falling under heading 0505 (which deals with raw hides and skins of birds with their feathers or down, or parts thereof, not otherwise worked than cleaned, de-fatted, and de-tanned, suitable for use in taxidermy or for other purposes). Therefore, 6701 is for more processed or incorporated feather and down products.

The distinction from sibling categories at the HTS database root level is significant. Unlike headings covering live animals (e.g., 0101-0105), heading 6701 focuses exclusively on the derived materials and manufactured goods from birds, not the living creatures themselves. It is also separate from categories that might cover raw bird parts not intended for use as plumage or down.

Within heading 6701, subcategories further refine the classification. Subheading 6701.00.30.00 specifically addresses "Articles of feathers or down," which would include finished products like feather boas, feather duster heads, down-filled garments, or decorative items where feathers or down are the primary constituent. The residual category, 6701.00.60.00, "Other," would capture any goods meeting the broader description of heading 6701 that are not specifically classified under the "Articles of feathers or down" subheading, such as unprocessed down or detached feathers.