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.
This polar bear has algae growing in its hair. Photo Credit: Steven Pierson
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!
Earth Rangers is a non-profit organization that works to inspire and educate children about the environment. At EarthRangers.com kids can play games, discover amazing facts, meet animal ambassadors and fundraise to protect biodiversity.
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thats really cool I didn’t know that
did you know? a polar bears tongue is blue? and their paws act like snowshoes?
i love the polar
bear.
from,
ashlyn
I really like the polar bear. It is such a majestic, beautify creature, and we should all do our part to save it, or other animals in the same situation.
Jovanna
did you know a polor bears skin is black
i have a question for you all!did they come to your school!
well i know the polar bears fur is clear because the earth rangers came to our school but i did’t know they can turn to light yellow or green!!!???
my favourite colour. GREEN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
the polar bear is sooo cute and the polar bear’s fur is……………………. clear!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
polar bears are amazing creatures