Cows can see color, though their capability is quite limited. Cows are red/green colorblind, which means that they see red and green as gray or black. Cows can also see yellow and blue, though they see muted versions of these colors, as well as black and white.
Cows are more adept at noticing the contrast in colors, which can even influence their behavior. For example, cows will easily get spooked by shadows or will avoid water when the sun is brightly shining down on it.
It isn’t just color that cows see differently. Cows see things very differently than humans do due to having panoramic vision, which allows them to see things in all directions without moving their heads
What Colors Do Cows See Best?
Cows see colors with long wavelengths, such as red, orange and yellow, much better than colors with shorter wavelengths, which include green, blue, purple and gray. This is thought to be an evolutionary survival mechanism so they can see the blood if a member of the herd was attacked.
Do Cows Hate the Color Red
Neither cows nor bulls hate the color red. In fact, as both cows and bulls – i.e. cattle – are partially colorblind, they are not even able to see red. Instead, it is the cape’s movement as the matador whips it around that becomes the source of much annoyance.
Can Cows See in the Dark?
Cows can see in the dark well thanks to having what is known as tapetum lucidum. This is a reflective layer behind the retina that is able to increase the amount of light so night vision becomes possible.
Can Cows See Infrared?
Cold-blooded animals such as snakes, blood-sucking insects, fish and frogs can see infrared light. As cows are mammals and not cold-blooded, they are unable to see infrared.