Baby Eye Color Predictor
Predicted Probabilities:
How Baby Eye Color is Determined
Predicting a baby's eye color is a fascinating dive into the world of genetics. While many believe it is as simple as a single gene interaction, modern science shows that eye color is polygenic, meaning it involves multiple genes working in tandem. The primary factor is the amount and distribution of melanin in the iris.
The Role of Brown, Blue, and Hazel Genes
Historically, the simplified "Grigor Mendel" model taught that brown eyes are dominant and blue eyes are recessive. While this provides a basic framework, it doesn't fully explain the existence of hazel or green eyes. Hazel eyes are unique because they contain a moderate amount of melanin, often concentrated in the outer border of the iris, creating a multicolored appearance that shifts between green, brown, and gold.
Key Probability Patterns
- Two Blue-Eyed Parents: There is a very high probability (approx. 99%) that the child will have blue eyes. However, because genetics are complex, it is still possible for green or hazel eyes to appear.
- Two Brown-Eyed Parents: Despite both parents having brown eyes, if both carry the recessive "blue" or "green" genes, there is about a 25% chance the child will have blue, green, or hazel eyes.
- The Hazel Variable: Hazel is often considered a blend. When one parent has hazel eyes and the other has blue, the child has a high likelihood of inheriting either a light hazel or a deep blue/green shade.
When Do Babies Get Their Permanent Eye Color?
Most babies are born with blue or greyish eyes. This is because the melanocytes (cells responsible for producing pigment) have not been fully activated by light exposure. You will usually see the permanent eye color settle between 6 and 12 months of age, though some children's eye colors can continue to shift slightly until age 3.
Understanding the Results
The percentages provided by our calculator are based on common genetic statistical models (the Davenport model and modern variations). For example, if both parents have Hazel eyes, the calculator estimates a 70% chance of the baby also having Hazel eyes, with smaller chances for Brown, Green, or Blue depending on the underlying genetic "reservoir" of the parents.