1. First Layer: The first layer is made up of short, dense fur. This layer acts as a base layer that traps warm air close to the skin, providing insulation. It creates an insulating barrier that prevents the cold from reaching the bear's skin and helps maintain body temperature.
2. Second Layer: Over the first layer is a longer, coarse, and oily outer layer of fur. This layer repels water and snow, preventing them from reaching the skin and potentially leading to heat loss. The air trapped between these two layers provides additional insulation and buoyancy when the bear swims in icy waters.
3. Thick Fat Layer: Beneath the fur, polar bears have a thick layer of fat, called blubber. Blubber acts as an excellent insulator, helping the bear retain body heat and providing energy reserves. It also aids in buoyancy and helps polar bears stay afloat while swimming.
The dense fur and thick fat layer combined provide exceptional insulation, allowing polar bears to withstand extreme arctic temperatures, swim in frigid waters, and survive in the harsh conditions of the Arctic environment.