Data Sections
Quick Reference
Classification:Ursus maritimus
Status:Vulnerable
Population:~26,000
📏 Measurements
Guard Hair Length:50-150mm
Undercoat Length:20-40mm
Hair Density:600-900 hairs/cm²
Total Fur Weight:3-5 kg total fur
🔍 Microscopy View
🤓 Fascinating Fur Facts
Polar bear fur isn't actually white - it's translucent!
Each hair is hollow and colorless, appearing white due to light scattering.
A polar bear has about 42 hairs per square centimeter
That's roughly 270,000 hairs per square inch!
Their fur can trap so much air it makes them buoyant
This helps them swim long distances in Arctic waters.
Polar bear skin is actually black
The dark skin helps absorb heat from sunlight.
Their fur changes seasonally
It's thickest in winter and thins out during summer months.
Each hair shaft is like a tiny fiber optic cable
Light travels down the hollow core, contributing to heat distribution.