Cats and owls are the most typical ones we are aware of. Most animals are very active at night compared to during the day. Animals like cats, bats, owls, wolves and so on, just to name a few. Because of their capacity to see in the dark, they can hunt at night and avoid being attacked by predators. These creatures, which are often referred to as nocturnal animals, have better vision at night than during the day.
How Do Animals See In The Dark?
As much as these animals can see in the dark, they all have distinct ways of doing so, for example, cats have a sixth sense which allows them to navigate easily in a dark environment, and dogs and wolves have a keen sense of smell. But what advantages do they have over us that allow them this amazing ability?
As humans, our eyes use light to see objects around us. Animals that can see in the dark have adapted to this limitation by developing different ways of seeing. For example, Cats have a cell layer in their eyes that allows them to reflect light and allows them to see in the dark. This layer is called tapetum lucidum. Dogs on the other hand have a keen sense of smell. They can smell things that we can’t, which allows them to find their way around even when it’s pitch black.
Animals That Can See In The Dark
Nocturnal animals, such as bats and foxes, have evolved to have superb night vision. This is because they rely on hunting and scavenging at night when most other animals are asleep.
In addition to nocturnal animals, some aquatic creatures can also see in the dark. This is because their natural environment is very dark, and they need to be able to track food and predators effectively. Some fish, sharks, and even dolphins can see in the dark.
How Do These Animals Use Their Vision In The Dark?
So, how do these animals use their vision in the dark?
Cats and owls have a special membrane that reflects light. This membrane acts as a mirror and reflects light into the eye, which allows the animal to see better in low-light conditions.
Other animals, like the cat, have a structure in their eyes called the pupil that works like a shutter. When it’s dark, the pupil enlarges to let in more light, and when it’s light out, the pupil contracts to block out the light.
Benefits
For one, it allows them to hunt and scavenge for food at night when other animals are asleep. They can also see, sense and avoid predators with this ability.
In addition, having night vision can be useful in other ways. For example, some animals use it for navigation, while others use it to communicate with each other in the dark. Overall, being able to see in the dark can be a major advantage for animals in the wild.
Disadvantages Of Seeing In The Dark
So, we’ve talked about some of the amazing abilities that animals have to see in the dark. But are there any drawbacks to seeing in the dark?
For one, animals that see in the dark can’t see as well during the day. This is because their eyes have evolved to let in more light at night, so they have a harder time seeing colors and details in bright light.
Another downside is that animals that see in the dark can’t see as well when it’s cloudy or foggy. This is because clouds and fog scatter light, making it harder for animals to distinguish shapes and colors.
How Humans Can See In The Dark?
So, now you know a bit about how animals see in the dark. Here are a few tips to help you see in the dark like an animal:
Use your sense of smell. Animals like dogs have a keen sense of smell that allows them to see in the dark. So, if you can’t see where you’re going, try taking a deep breath and following your nose.
Listen for clues. Many animals use sound to navigate in the dark. If you’re lost, try listening for the sound of water or traffic to orient yourself.
Stay still and let your eyes adjust. Animals who hunt in the dark often stay still until their prey comes into view.
Conclusion
Different animals have evolved different methods of seeing in the dark. Some animals, like cats, have highly developed senses of sight that allow them to see in the dark. Other animals, like bats, use sound to navigate their way around. No matter how they do it, these creatures can see in the darkness and survive in the night.
