6 Minute English Why are some animals black and white?
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Mar 5, 2026 They explore why many animals sport black-and-white coloring, from warning signals to camouflage. Experiments about zebra stripes and fly behavior are discussed. The varying reasons behind penguin and panda patterns are examined. New vocabulary related to animal coloration is highlighted.
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Black And White Coloration Is Often About Survival
- Many animals share black and white coloration for survival rather than aesthetics.
- Neil and Becca list zebras, giant pandas and magpies as examples to frame the question about function.
Stripes Create Optical Illusions That Repel Flies
- High-contrast black and white patterns can create optical illusions that deter biting insects.
- Dr Martin Howe tested striped rugs on horses and found almost every black-and-white high-contrast pattern reduced fly landings.
Horse Experiments Mimicked Zebras To Test Fly Avoidance
- Dr Martin Howe conducted many tests by covering horses in stripes to mimic zebras and observe fly behaviour.
- His experiments suggested the visual effect of stripes, not specific stripe arrangement, discouraged insects from biting.