Animal fibers are textile fibers from the animal kingdom and are also called protein fibers due to their composition of amino acids. They are divided into two classes; hair fibers that come from all types of wool from mammal fur, and filament (secreted) fibers, i.e. silk, which silkworms secrete when spinning their cocoons.
Most animal fibres are hygroscopic, which means they easily absorb moisture from their surroundings, without the fibre feeling wet. The textile fibre retains moisture as a result of its amino acids forming hydrogen bonds with water molecules. As a result, this makes animal fibres particularly suitable for clothing for physical activities, as they can absorb sweat and keep the skin dry.
Many animal fibres, especially wool and mohair, are known for their strength and ability to return to their original shape after being wrinkled. They are also less flammable than plant fibres as they have a natural flame retardant.
Different animal fibres and their origin
- Wool comes mainly from cheeps, but could olso come from goats, camels and llamas.
- Silk comes from silk worms.
- Cashmere comes from the undercoat of the cashmere goat.
- Alpaca comes from the alpaca animal.
- Mohair comes from angora goats.
- Angora comes from angora rabbits.
Sources
Science Direct – Animal Fibres 
Britannica – Specialty Hair Fibre
June 2025 RETHINK | Updated September 2025
