There’s a reason why the snow on this buck’s back isn’t melting. Matthew Ross shared this trail camera photo, and it shows just how well-equipped deer are for cold weather. The snow accumulating on the back of this buck is evidence of the insulating qualities of deer hair. The hair on a deer’s winter coat is hollow, providing for excellent insulation by trapping body heat and preventing snow from melting. The latter attribute is crucial, as melted snow would soak the deer’s hide, causing it to burn more energy to stay warm and possibly lead to hypothermia. Deer hair in winter is also kinked rather than straight, another feature that allows it to trap body heat more efficiently.
- If you have any interesting trail camera photos to share, we’d love to see them. Photos and videos can be sent to Tom@Veneskyoutdoors.com.
- Tom Venesky
