The internet is full of surprising explanations for the odd things we see around us—like square ocean waves or barns with stars. So when we came across trees with white-painted trunks, we had to find out why.

Turns out, it’s not just a quirky decoration—it’s protection.

In winter, sunlight can warm a tree’s bark during the day, causing it to expand. When temperatures drop at night, the bark quickly contracts. This sudden shift can cause the bark to crack, damaging the tree.