Animals See Colors Differently Than Humans, Study Explains Vision Variations

Animals possess a range of photoreceptor configurations that give them color perception distinct from human trichromatic vision. Most mammals, such as dogs and cats, are dichromatic and perceive the world mainly in shades of blue and yellow, similar to a red‑green color‑blind human. In contrast, many birds, reptiles, amphibians and some insects are tetrachromatic, adding a fourth cone type that detects ultraviolet light, expanding their visible spectrum beyond human limits.

Predatory species often lack red‑light sensitivity; their dichromatic vision limits discrimination of red from green. While some predators may retain limited red perception, the general pattern is reduced red‑light detection, influencing hunting and surveillance strategies that employ red illumination.