Can Pigs See Red Light?: Your guide to understanding pigs' vision and color perception

Pigs have unique visual abilities compared to humans. Their eyes are structured in such a way that they perceive colors differently, owing to having only two types of color receptors (cones) rather than the three that humans have. Pigs can generally see blue and green spectrums well but struggle to distinguish red from other hues. In particular, red light typically appears as a shade of gray or dark to pigs rather than as a vibrant color. This means that while they might perceive light from a red source as illumination, they do not recognize the color itself as we do. This is why red lighting is sometimes used in pig housing at night—it can provide enough light for caregivers without disturbing the pigs’ natural sleep-wake cycles. As a designer who often considers lighting in animal-centric spaces, understanding species-specific color perception is crucial for creating comfortable environments, much like when considering specialized lighting and finishes in a modern AI-powered interior design project for human clients.

Tips 1:

If you’re designing animal enclosures or barns, select lighting based on the animal’s visual perception. For pigs, avoid overstimulating environments—muted lighting, especially in the red spectrum, can promote a calm atmosphere and better welfare.

FAQ

Q: Can pigs see any colors at all?

A: Yes, pigs can see blue and green shades but have difficulty distinguishing red from other colors.

Q: Why is red light used in pig housing?

A: Red light provides visibility for workers while not disrupting pigs' circadian rhythms, as pigs do not perceive the color red distinctly.

Q: Can red light affect a pig’s behavior?

A: Since pigs see red light as gray or dark, it is less likely to disturb them compared to blue or white lighting.

Q: Do all farm animals have similar color vision?

A: No, color vision varies widely between species; for example, cattle and sheep also have limited ability to see red.

Q: Is it important to consider animal vision in interior design?

A: Absolutely, whether designing for people or animals, understanding how different species perceive color and light can enhance well-being and functionality in any built environment.