Scientists explain why Rudolph's nose is red
Rudolph and his red nose will be able to light Santa's sleigh this Christmas -- thanks to some extra blood vessels in his nasal region.
Scientists have discovered that reindeers' noses have an abundance of red blood cells in their nose, which could explain the bright ruby-color on Rudolph's snout.
Micro-vessels or tiny blood cells in the nose are necessary to bring oxygen to other parts of the body, regulating inflammation and controlling temperature. This is especially true for reindeer, which normally reside in the Netherlands and Norway where the weather is especially cold.
Researchers looked at the noses of five humans and two reindeer using a hand-held video microscope.
Humans had a blood vessel density in their nose of 15 mm/mm2. However, reindeer noses had a 25 percent higher density of blood vessels in their nose, making it more red with red blood cells.
Reindeer also had a high density of mucous glands, which help keep the noses stable during varying weather conditions and extremes. The mucous helps move fluids and acts as a barrier to the elements.
"These factors explain why the nose of Rudolph, the lead flying reindeer employed by Santa Claus to pull his sleigh, is red and well adapted to carrying out his duties in extreme temperatures," the authors rose.
The study was published on Dec. 17 in BMJ's Christmas issue, an annual edition from the journal incorporates humor and science. Also in the issue, researchers warned of a wayward tooth fairy who stands accuse of malpractice for placing a tooth in a sleeping child's ear.
