Science Minute Script:

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Goosebumps

This Science Minute was researched and written by Dylan W. of Spencer, NY.

Why do people get goosebumps? Goosebumps arise when the body responds to cold by contracting tiny muscles attached to the bottom of the hair follicles. The muscles cause the hair to stand up on end, forming a layer of insulation to trap body heat. This is an effective process of warming animals covered with fur.

Goosebumps occur only in mammals–and geese are not mammals! However, birds do undergo a similar process when they are cold. They warm up by ruffling their feathers to hold in heat.

So the term "goosebumps" makes some sense. Plus, goosebumps can make you look a little bit like a plucked goose!