pelage

Findings published today in Evolution, suggest that this is a result of relaxed selection, when environmental change eliminates or weakens the selection of a normally important trait -- in this case black and white pelage.

His estimated birth year was determined by the condition of his pelage, or fur, and teeth.

On the pristine, remote Cisco Beach on Nantucket, I watched a grey seal watching me – only to realise the sleek pelage of its midriff was bound with an orange plastic bag.

His blond, fuzzy natal pelage has given way to the lush, chocolate brown coat of an adult.

The panda’s black-and-white pelage certainly makes for a striking logo.