Dogs in Chernobyl turned blue for this disgusting reason
What's the story
Stray dogs in the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone, Ukraine were recently spotted with bright blue fur, but it's not due to radiation exposure. The Dogs of Chernobyl program, which cares for these strays, has revealed that the unusual coloration is likely from rolling in a tipped-over porta potty (mobile toilet). Dr. Timothy A. Mousseau from the University of South Carolina explained this theory after social media speculated about possible radiation-induced mutations.
Program
Dogs of Chernobyl program cares for strays
The Dogs of Chernobyl program, an affiliate of the non-profit Clean Futures Fund (CFF), has been caring for around 700 dogs in the exclusion zone since 2017. These dogs are descendants of pets abandoned during the evacuation after the 1986 nuclear disaster. The area is still uninhabitable due to radiation levels six times higher than allowed for human workers and will remain so for about 3,000 years.
Behavior impact
Blue dogs' behavior linked to unsanitary conditions
Dr Mousseau clarified that the blue coloration of these dogs is a result of their unsanitary behavior, not radiation. He said, "The blue coloration was simply a sign of the dog's unsanitary behavior! As any dog owner knows, most dogs will eat just about anything, including feces!" This explanation puts an end to theories about radiation-induced mutations or evolutionary adaptations in these animals.
Wildlife recovery
Chernobyl's wildlife thrives despite radiation
Since humans left the region nearly 40 years ago, wildlife has thrived in the exclusion zone. A 2024 study discovered that some dogs there had developed a mutation granting them immunity to radiation, pollution, and heavy metals.