Animals’ perception of time is linked to the pace of their life – new study

As you read this, the screen is probably flashing over 240 times per second, yet, as a human, you won’t notice this flickering light.

However, to a fruit fly hovering above your head, the screen would represent a strobe light fit for an Ibiza rave. This is because the way different species sample time, and the rates at which they can perceive it, varies greatly across the animal kingdom.

To us, a fast moving ball might seem like a blur but to dragonflies, pigeons and even bigclaw snapping shrimp it can be seen in great detail. But for species like snails or certain deep…

© La Conversation - mardi 24 février 2026