Questacon > Kids > Incredible Illusions > Camouflage > Explanation

Incredible Illusions

Camouflage

Can you blend In?

Most people find it much easier to see things when they are moving. In this illusion, it is very difficult to see the smiling face at all when it is still. As soon as it starts moving, you wonder how you could have ever missed it.

The smiling face in this illusion is similar to its background in almost every way. It is only when all the points in the face move together that we can see they are connected. This is one of the main ways we can tell that different things we see are all part of the same object. We assume all the points we see moving in the same direction at the same time must be part of the same thing.

People and animals sometimes use this idea to hide. Soldiers wearing camouflage can blend into a forest so that they can only be seen when they move. Many insects, reptiles and fish have bodies coloured in a similar way to the surroundings where they live. They are almost impossible to see if they stay still. Because most creatures have eyes that can see things much better when they are moving, many animals use camouflage to keep safe.

The part of the brain that looks for moving things is very important in most animals. In fact, some insects can only see things when they move. Humans are much more likely to see something if it is moving, even when it isn't camouflaged. You can check this out for yourself. Try sitting in a place where people wouldn't normally sit (maybe on the floor against a wall, but in full view). Keep very, very still and see how long it takes for people walking past to notice you. Provided they don't have to step over you or come too close, you'll be surprised how well camouflaged you become by just staying still.