Can someone explain "guard hairs" (checked archives)

Submitted by SeaBass on 01/25/2004. ( bassluongo@comcast.net ) 24.91.108.111

I hear guard hairs referred to a lot, but I cannot seem to figure out exactly what they are...can someone explain this to me? Thanks
SeaBass

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They are the longer fur!

This response submitted by Bruce Rittel on 01/25/2004. ( rittel@mindspring.com ) 171.75.171.6

Guard hairs are the longer fur on a prime pelt. It is very obvious on Beaver and Muskrat pelts because they have a thick underfur and the guard hairs arent as dense as on other pelts. They "guard" the plush thick underfur that actually provide the animal with the warmth it needs.


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