Optical illusions are fascinating tricks our minds play, making us see something that’s not actually there. This is exactly what happens with stereograms, which hide 3D objects within flat, seemingly shapeless images.

To make sure you aren’t fooled, we’ve prepared a fun test for you. Here are 18 images designed to train your eyes and help you spot the hidden 3D shapes quickly. And don’t worry, there’s also a bonus section to help you out if you find it challenging.

How stereograms work

As mentioned earlier, stereograms are 3D optical illusions created by our binocular vision. When we look at an object, our right and left eyes see it slightly differently. This information is processed by our brain to translate it into the 3D objects we see daily. Stereograms use this technique to create an illusion of depth where there is none.

1. Ready to start? Find the hidden lion.

2. Find the hidden rhino.

3. Can you see the rabbit?

4. There’s a bear hiding here.

5. And here we have a fox.

6. Try to find the hidden cat.

7. Can you find the flamingo here?

8. Try finding the camel in this one.

9. You’re lucky this bull cannot leave the screen!

10. This dog cannot be found easily, we must say.

11. Can you see the piglet?

12. And here there’s a naughty monkey hiding.

13. Can you find the sheep in this image?

14. And here there’s a nice duck.

15. Could you find the hidden horse?

16. Try finding the hippo.

17. Find the hidden elephant.

18. Hey, you did a great job! This is the last one, ready? Can you spot the hidden dolphin?

Could you find all the animals? Here are some tips to find all the stereograms.

To see the 3D images in the stereograms, you don’t need special glasses, just some patience and ingenuity. If you can’t see them with the naked eye, here are a few methods to help:

Many people struggle to see these images, often due to problems with binocular vision. If you have conditions like strabismus or a lazy eye, it might be difficult as the brain processes depth differently.

Were you able to spot all the hidden animals? Share this challenge with your friends to see who’s the best at it!