American zoological scientists from Purdue University in Indiana have discovered why domestic cats and some of their wild relatives have characteristic bald patches in front of their ears. This was reported by portal Live Science.
In addition to domestic animals, sparse patches of hair on the head are characteristic of African wildcats, ocelots and lynxes. At the same time, big cats such as lions, tigers and jaguars do not have such a distinctive feature.
Until recently, scientists did not understand why bald patches appear around cats’ ears, according to zoologist Judith Stella. However, short fur on the paw pads and abdomen is known to help the animal keep itself clean by reducing the amount of dirt and moisture collected.
According to a new theory, the thinner hair in front of the ears of small cats helps them detect the ultrasonic signals of the rodents they hunt. Open ears help predators better hear ultrasound and identify its source.
Since jaguars, lions, and tigers often chase antelope, wild boar, and other large animals, detecting ultrasonic frequencies is less important to their survival; This explains the lack of hair length variation on the head.
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