It may sound unbelievable, but reindeer eyes change from a blazing gold in the summer to a deep, dark blue in the winter. However, this isn't the kind of color change you might expect, as it usually can't be seen in most photographs. So, what exactly is happening? Read on to discover why reindeer eyes change color and how this adaptation benefits them in the wild.
The claim: Photos show reindeer have golden eyes in the summer and blue eyes in the winter Reindeer are often associated with a red nose. During the long winter reindeers' eyes are permanently dilated to try and see as much as possible in the dark conditions of the Arctic circle where some parts get little sunlight for up to six. Reindeer eyes change color during the winter, from golden to blue, something researchers say helps them to capture more light during the Arctic's dark winter months.
Why Reindeer Eyes Change Color with the Seasons: Reindeer Eye Color Mystery Solved Reindeer, also known as caribou in North America, inhabit some of the coldest and darkest parts of our planet. These remarkable creatures face months of near. Reindeer don't have red noses, but their eyes do turn green to blue in the winter.
Scientists are finally figuring out why. But rule-breaking reindeer don't just use their eyes to make sense of the world, as other animals do. They also use the world to make their eyes make more sense.
The reindeer's color. This change in color helps reindeer eyes capture more light during the dark winter months in the Arctic, scientists added. Collection of reindeer eyes.
Reindeer change the color of a reflective layer in their eyes between summer and winter to deal with months. Reindeer, or caribou in North America, have an incredibly unique genetic adaption to help them see better regardless of season or light condition. In the summertime, reindeer can be seen sporting a set of golden eyes, while in winter, they are a striking blue.