Final answer:
The statement is false; animals in cold regions, like polar bears, have adaptations such as thick fur and fat layers for insulation, which are more crucial for retaining heat than absorbing it through dark colors.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'The best colour for animals living in cold, windy northern regions is black because it absorbs solar energy' is false. While it is true that black objects absorb electromagnetic radiation more effectively than lighter-colored objects, animals living in cold regions typically have adaptations that are more important for insulation and heat retention rather than absorbing heat. For instance, polar bears have thick fur and a dense layer of fat under their skin which helps them maintain body temperature by reducing heat loss. Moreover, black surfaces also tend to radiate heat faster than lighter surfaces when not directly exposed to sunlight, which could be counterproductive in consistently cold environments.