ICEV Animal Science Certification Practice Exam

Vibrissae are commonly known as what sensory hairs?

Ears Nostrils Whiskers Tail

Correct Answer:

Whiskers

Explanation:

Vibrissae are specialized tactile hairs on an animal’s face and body, commonly known as whiskers. They’re thicker and more deeply rooted than ordinary fur and are richly innervated, with muscles that can position them to probe the environment. When a whisker is touched or deflected by air, it bends, and the resulting neural signals reveal object location, texture, and shape. This tactile sensing is especially useful in dark or cluttered spaces for navigation, foraging, and avoiding obstacles. The other options aren’t sensory hairs in the same tactile sense—ears are for hearing, nostrils for breathing and smell, and the tail serves balance and communication.

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