What Color Is Polar Bear Hair?

Also known as a sea/ice bear, the polar bear is one of the largest land predators in the world. Polar bears are found in the Arctic regions as well as in Alaska in the United States and the nations of Canada, Denmark, Norway and Russia. Although the hair of the polar bear often appears to be white, it actually is transparent. The white appearance is caused by light shining through the hair follicles, which essentially are clear, hollow tubes.

More facts about polar bears:

• The hair of a polar bear is oily and serves as a natural water repellent. This allows the bear to emerge from the water and shake off water in a manner similar to the way a dog shakes water off fur. Polar bears also can remove water from their pelts by dragging their bodies along the smooth surface of the ice.


• The front paws of the polar bear are wider than the back paws and include webbed toes. This helps the bears to swim with greater ease. Polar bears can swim as far as 100 miles (1,621 km) at a time.


• Seals are one of the primary sources of food for polar bears. A common hunting strategy is for the bear to wait on the ice near the breathing hole of the seal, then biting the seal’s head as it emerges from the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What color is polar bear hair?

Polar bear hair is not actually white; it's transparent with a hollow core. The hairs appear white because they scatter and reflect visible light, much like snow and ice do. This optical illusion helps polar bears blend into their icy environment, which is crucial for hunting and camouflage.

Why does polar bear fur appear white if it's transparent?

The transparency of polar bear fur combined with its hollow structure scatters light in all directions, creating what is known as diffuse reflection. This process causes the fur to appear white to the human eye, despite being pigment-free. This adaptation is perfect for their snowy and icy habitat.

Do polar bears have any color on their skin?

Underneath their deceptive fur, polar bears have black skin. According to researchers, the dark skin helps them absorb heat from the sun, which is vital in their cold environment. This heat absorption is enhanced by their thick layer of blubber, which insulates them against the frigid Arctic temperatures.

How does the fur of a polar bear help it survive in the Arctic?

Polar bear fur is not only effective camouflage but also serves as insulation. The hollow hairs trap air, providing thermal insulation, while their skin and blubber store fat for both warmth and energy. This combination allows polar bears to endure the extreme cold of the Arctic climate.

Can polar bear fur change color over time or with the seasons?

Polar bear fur can sometimes appear yellowish, especially when the bears come in contact with seal oil during feeding. However, the fur does not change color seasonally. The yellowing can also be due to aging or dirt, but generally, the fur retains its light-reflecting properties throughout the year.

Is the fur of a polar bear the same all over its body?

The fur of a polar bear is not uniform; it varies in length and density. The fur is longer on the neck and hind legs for added insulation against the cold. Guard hairs, which protect the dense underfur, can reach lengths of 15 cm, providing an extra layer of defense against the elements.