Tumble Science Podcast for Kids The Science of Whiskers
Dec 26, 2025
Robin Grant, a senior lecturer in comparative animal behavior and physiology, takes us on a whisker-filled journey. She reveals how seals rely on their sensitive whiskers for underwater navigation, relying on touch when vision is limited. With adorable anecdotes about training seals like Moe, Robin shares how these animals 'count' whisker contacts to gauge size. Additionally, she discusses the evolutionary loss of human whiskers while retaining the facial muscles that control them. Dive in to learn about the fascinating science behind whiskers!
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Whiskers Are A Sixth Sense
- Whiskers serve as a primary touch sense for many mammals, not just decorative facial hair.
- Robin Grant explains seals rely on whiskers because underwater vision and smell are limited.
Whisker Shape Detects Fish Wakes
- Seal whiskers are thick and grooved to remain stable in water and detect tiny movements.
- These adaptations let seals sense fish wakes and follow their exact path underwater.
Training Mo The Seal
- Robin Grant trained a seal named Mo to discriminate big and small discs while blindfolded and wearing headphones.
- Mo explored with his nose, then pushed the chosen disc and received fish rewards.