The Science of Fur

[billhenry1234]

The furs we see today are literally the "product" of hundreds of millions of years of evolution. The science behind fur and how it works is really amazing. We keep trying to reinvent the wheel when nature has already provided the perfect solution. Too bad the peta folks slept through their biology classes.

[billhenry1234]

How does fur keep animals warm in cold water?

 

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/11/151123103838.htm

 

Date:

November 23, 2015

Source:

American Physical Society's Division of Fluid Dynamics

Summary:

Rather than relying on a thick layer of body fat for insulation as many aquatic mammals do, some seabirds and semiaquatic mammals such as fur seals and otters trap a layer of air in their feathers and furs for thermal insulation against the ice cold drink. Now a team of researchers has experimentally studied the trapping of air in hairy surfaces and the water-repellent properties of undeformable hairy textures, which is key for animals’ thermal regulation.

[billhenry1234]

A Furry Diving Suit Could Keep You Warm:

 

http://www.popsci.com/furry-diving-suit-could-keep-you-warm

[billhenry1234]

Fur and feathers keep animals warm by scattering light

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/01/140123125834.htm

 

Date:

January 23, 2014

Source:

The Optical Society

Summary:

In work that has major implications for improving the performance of building insulation, scientists have calculated that hairs that reflect infrared light may contribute significant insulating power to the exceptionally warm winter coats of polar bears and other animals.

[Guest]

Cool article! Explains why beavers have long fur with a thick underfur.