Why are brown bears brown?

Brown bears are brown because of melanin, a pigment that gives color to hair, skin, and eyes. There are two main types of melanin:

* Eumelanin: This pigment gives a brown or black color. Brown bears have a higher concentration of eumelanin in their fur.

* Pheomelanin: This pigment gives a reddish or yellow color. While brown bears have some pheomelanin, it's less dominant than eumelanin.

Other factors that contribute to a brown bear's color:

* Genetics: The amount and type of melanin produced is determined by the bear's genes.

* Diet: A bear's diet can influence the color of its fur. For example, a diet rich in berries can make a bear's fur appear more reddish.

* Age: The fur of younger brown bears can be lighter than the fur of older bears.

* Sunlight exposure: Exposure to sunlight can lighten a brown bear's fur over time.

Interesting Note: While the most common color for brown bears is brown, there are variations. Some brown bears can have fur that ranges from blonde to black, depending on the combination of these factors.