Jump directly to the content

THIS is the optical illusion that puts your brain to the test as you try to work how many legs this elephant has.

Everyone can see the exotic animal, but only those with 20/20 vison and a high IQ can spot the number of legs it has in seven seconds.

Can you spot the correct number of legs this elephant has?
8
Can you spot the correct number of legs this elephant has?Credit: X/crazyiIIusions

The puzzle will remind you of the last time you saw an elephant on a safari and you lost count of its legs.

One moment you could have sworn it had four, but then from a different angle it looked like it had six.

You didn't want to tell anyone that you struggled whilst counting to four, so you said nothing, but the thought stayed with you.

Meanwhile, the elephant was just going about its day, enjoying life strolling around and posing for the tourists.

read more in optical illusions

Those who take on this challenging puzzle are reminded that this elephant doesn't represent how many legs they have in real life.

Then again, the picture had to come from somewhere, so maybe there are elephants out there on a secret safari with an unknown number of legs.

What makes this teaser difficult is the lack of colour in the image to distinguish the number of limbs this elephant has.

The simplicity of the sketch also makes things tricky.

The key to this optical illusion is to follow the legs up to where they connect to the body of the elephant.

Are you ready, because the clock is ticking!

If you're still struggling, a hint would be to count the number of feet.

People who are able to solve the puzzle quickly possess good observational skills and high cognitive speed.

It tests your ability to process a high volume of visual information and the ability to concentrate under high amounts of pressure.

How can optical illusions and brainteasers help me?

Engaging in activities like solving optical illusions and brainteasers can have many cognitive benefits as it can stimulate various brain regions.

Some benefits include:

  • Cognitive stimulation: Engaging in these activities challenges the brain, promoting mental agility and flexibility.
  • Problem-solving skills: Regular practice enhances analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
  • Memory improvement: These challenges often require memory recall and can contribute to better memory function.
  • Creativity: They encourage thinking outside the box, fostering creativity and innovative thought processes.
  • Focus and attention: Working on optical illusions and brainteasers requires concentration, contributing to improved focus.
  • Stress relief: The enjoyable nature of these puzzles can act as a form of relaxation and stress relief.

Psychologists at The University of Glasgow found that staring at an optical illusion can improve eye sight by allowing you to see small print.

Escape London says puzzles can also give your mind a great workout and may "boost your brain's activity" which "reduces the risk of dementia."

These can help to stimulate several parts of the brain at the same time.

Tasks like this can also provide people with a productive way to have fun and relax.

READ MORE SUN STORIES

Have you solved it? Don’t worry, if you’re still struggling we’ve included the solution to the brainteaser down below.

If you've solved that, why not try testing your mental agility on these ones?

The elephant actually only has one leg, the back left one which is circled
8
The elephant actually only has one leg, the back left one which is circledCredit: X/crazyiIIusions
Can you save the cowboy from the slithering snake?
8
Can you save the cowboy from the slithering snake?Credit: Bright Side
Can you find the hidden bee flying in the flowers?
8
Can you find the hidden bee flying in the flowers?Credit: Gergely Dudás/Dudolf
Can you pull yourself away from the dance floor to find all the £10 notes?
8
Can you pull yourself away from the dance floor to find all the £10 notes?Credit: ANNA
The deadly snake is circled
8
The deadly snake is circledCredit: Bright Side
The buzzing bee is circled in red
8
The buzzing bee is circled in redCredit: Gergely Dudás/Dudolf
The notes are circled in yellow
8
The notes are circled in yellowCredit: ANNA
Topics