Optical Illusion

An optical illusion (also called a visual illusion) is characterized by visually perceived images that differ from objective reality. The information gathered by the eye is processed in the brain to give a perception that does not tally with a physical measurement of the stimulus source. There are three main types: literal optical illusions that create images that are different from the objects that make them, physiological ones that are the effects on the eyes and brain of excessive stimulation of a specific type (brightness, tilt, color, movement), and cognitive illusions where the eye and brain make unconscious inferences. They can also be known as “mind games”.

The picture – seemingly showing an enormous baboon delivering a fearsome blow on a car’s roof – is in fact an optical illusion, captured at the perfect moment by Chez Owen, who was visiting the tourist attraction with his family.