What colour do you think Polar bear fur is? That might seem like a silly question but the answer might surprise you. HINT: it’s not white! Polar bear fur is actually clear! That’s right! CLEAR!
But if the Polar bear’s skin is black, how come they don’t look black in colour? Well, each of the longer guard hairs on the Polar bear’s body is hollow and reflects visible light, much like snow. So when the sun is shining brightly, Polar bears appear bright white.
Since these hairs are hollow, the Polar bears’ diet and environment can affect their colour. Polar bears whose diet has a lot of seals in it can look light yellow because of the seal oils. Polar bears that live in warmer climates (like in zoos) can have algae growing in their hair, which can make them look green! Don’t worry, being green doesn’t cause the Polar bear any harm and a bath with special salt solution turns them white again.
Looking for more details? Check out this article where we dive deeper into the science behind why Polar bears look white!
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whoa
WOW!!
I know that the fur is clear, but I just love how I s fur really looks like it’s white. It makes it a mystery! I’d love to save the polar bear!
Wow.
what????????????????????????????????? that is so cool
What! Well I sure learned something today
That’s really cool!
SAME
I knew their fur was actually clear!
I knew their fur was clear too
yellow and green cool
POLAR BEARS ARE SO CUTE AND CUDDLY!!!!!!!!!! I can’t wait to save them