Invasive Python Leather

The Everglades, one of the world's most unique and endangered ecosystems, faces an ongoing challenge due to the invasive Burmese Python. Eradication of this non-native species is critical.

Regenerating the Florida Everglades with change-making fashion

Piper & Skye has embarked on a visionary initiative to create a collection of exquisite products utilizing Florida's invasive python, marking a pivotal moment in our journey towards changemaking, sustainable fashion.

Restoring Endangered Species of Everglades National Park

The Burmese Python is an invasive species in Florida that adversely impacts native wildlife. For nearly two decades Pythons have successfully reproduced in the wetlands due to a lack of natural predators. According to the Florida Conservation Coalition, "These invaders have wreaked havoc on native species....including deer, pigs, alligators, and other fauna, thus potentially disrupting food chains and overall ecosystem balance". 

The Burmese Python is Protected by the Anti-Cruelty Law

Declared an Injurious Species by the US Fish and Wildlife Service under the Lacey Act, The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) encourages  the humane killing of Burmese Pythons on privately owned properties and Commission-managed lands according to guidelines recommended by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). This ensures that no suffering ensues.  

Creating Responsible Luxury and Restoring Ecosystems 

Piper & Skye is looking to this invasive species as a regenerative resource to craft a collection of luxurious bags to showcase our brand's unwavering dedication to utilizing materials that exhibit environmental stewardship. Utilizing regenerative materials that would otherwise go to waste creates a more circular product. Not only does this honor the animal and make greater use of the whole, but it also avoids the use of more environmentally-harmful bovine leather.


Our refined collection of Python accessories is a testament to our mission of blending responsibility with luxury fashion. 

We are contributing to the conservation of the Everglades by offering a sustainable solution to Burmese Python overpopulation. 

  • RAW MATERIAL SELECTION CRITERIA
  • ANIMAL WELFARE

Piper & Skye embodies the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources within its stringent Material Selection Criteria. We work with our suppliers to ensure that management of the species is overseen by a governing body, which seeks to ensure the healthy and thriving biodiverse ecosystem in which the species lives. Our objective has always been to design luxury handbags that have the smallest possible environmental impact. The first step in this journey is the careful selection of materials that satisfy our material selection criteria. For example, using pirarucu which is a byproduct of a natural food source, makes more efficient use of the whole fish while simultaneously ensuring that the skins do not end up in a landfill or being burned.  The following are the items we require in order to proceed with a certain raw material.


  • The species must meet at least one of the following criteria: 

    • Be used as a food source somewhere in the world.

    • Be in over-population in its natural habitat.

    • Be considered an invasive species.

  • The skins and leathers would be considered a waste product (headed for a landfill) unless passed-on to designers and artisans who create beautiful handbags and accessories with them.

  • Management of the species is overseen by a governing body (CITES, Fish and Wildlife Licensing, etc.) which seeks to ensure the healthy and thriving ecosystem in which the species lives.

  • There is no undue suffering in any form during theprocess of culling, fishing, or otherwise. We abide by theFive Freedoms originally defined by the UK’s FarmAnimal Welfare Council.

  • Select only suppliers that align with our goals to reduce hazardous and toxic chemicals used in the tanning,dying, and manufacturing processes.

Piper & Skye adheres to the animal welfare principles established by the non-profit organization “Business for Social Responsibility” (BSR Principles). Any Supplier providing us with animal materials shall also adhere to such principles and Piper & Skye's company Animal Welfare Policy.


In addition, Piper & Skye refers to the Terrestrial Animal Health Code published by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) for animal welfare standards at an international level. We expect our suppliers to fully comply with these standards and global animal laws.


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