Real redheads are a rare and unique breed.   We make up about 2% of the world’s population.   But Ireland is made up of 10% of the redheads. There are many diferent shades of red hair- golden red,orange and light strawberry but you can still tell when someone is not a natural redhead. Some look quite clown-like and totally foolish.

In my entire family, my oldest sister and myself are the only redheads. But red hair is a recessive gene, MC1R. So both my father and mother must have carried the gene since 2 mutated copies are required for red hair.

Many people assume all redheads have freckles and lots of them. Or at least some freckles sprinkled across their nose. But that is not the case. My sister does not have any freckles at all.

Some interesting facts about natural redheads: We are usually left handed which I am. We also have a high tolerance for pain. That would explain why I was able to deliver both of my sons without any pain killers. But we also need more anesthesia to sedate us. I will need to remember that if I need surgery.

Not sure why but bees prefer to sting people with red hair. Maybe the color attracts them.  Or is it natural redheads or just anyone who has red hair (natural or dyed).  Of course – I have never been stung by one – I guess I should consider myself lucky.

One negative thing about being a redhead – you always stand out in a crowd.   People will remember the red hair – which is not a good thing when you want to avoid any attention.

Many redheads including me have a fiery temper.  Not sure it is just redheads or Irish redheads.  It takes a long time to get my irish up but when it happens -look out.

Although red hair is associated with the Ireland, not evey red head is lucky enough to be Irish.  If you have a red head in your life – consider yourself very lucky.