Pelage refers to the entire hairy covering, or coat, of a mammal. It encompasses all the fur, hair, and wool that grow on the animal's body, playing crucial roles in thermoregulation, camouflage, protection from injury, and sensory perception. The pelage's structure varies greatly depending on the species' environment and lifestyle, including factors like hair type, density, and coloration. Its characteristics evolve to adapt the animal to its natural habitat, including the ability to shed and change its fur seasonally. This term is primarily used in zoology and mammalogy to provide a specific descriptor of the outermost feature of an animal.
Pelage meaning with examples
- The arctic fox's winter pelage is thick and white, providing excellent insulation and camouflage against the snowy landscape, while the summer pelage becomes thinner and darker. This seasonal adaptation is critical to its survival.
- The examination of the lion's pelage revealed a dense undercoat and longer guard hairs, providing both warmth and protection from the harsh African sun, along with the camouflage coloration. This pelage is critical for survival.
- Researchers studying the wild horses meticulously documented the subtle changes in the pelage throughout the year, connecting shifts in hair growth to dietary changes and environmental stressors which could be linked to the pelage.
- During the routine veterinary checkup, the vet noted the dog's unusually patchy pelage, prompting further investigation into potential underlying health issues, and its direct reflection upon the pelage.
- The museum's exhibit showcased various animal pelages, highlighting the stunning diversity of fur textures, patterns, and coloration found across different mammalian species, displaying a broad analysis of the pelage.
Pelage Crossword Answers
3 Letters
FUR
4 Letters
COAT