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NGC 4565: Galaxy on the Edge

Why Do Some Black Bears Have Brown Fur?

New research pinpoints the 9,000-year-old genetic mutation that gives some black bears a cinnamon-colored hue

As their name suggests, many American black bears have black fur—but not all of them do. These mammals actually come in a range of hues, from sandy blonde to rusty copper to bluish-grey. Researchers are particularly interested in why some of these bears have evolved to have cinnamon-colored fur, which makes them look similar to grizzly bears (also known as brown bears). From a safety perspective, it’s important for humans to distinguish between these two species so they know how to respond in an encounter. In a new paper published Friday in the journal Current Biology, researchers reveal they are one step closer to unraveling the mystery of these look-alike bears. The reddish-brown hue of some black bears likely comes from a genetic variation, the study suggests...

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