Two separate research teams have detailed the answer in two studies published Thursday in the journal Current Biology. They’ve identified the precise genetic mutation in these cats that explains their orangeness—a mutation not seen in other animals with similar coloration.

Chris Kaelin, a geneticist at Stanford Medicine, found himself thinking about cats. Not just any cats, but the loud, lovable, and often male ones streaked in unmistakable marmalade. These orange felines — icons of internet memes and cozy laps — have baffled scientists for over a century.

A newly discovered gene, Arhgap36, explains the rare orange coloring in cats and why most are male. It could have effects beyond fur color.