THIS mind-boggling optical illusion has left puzzle fanatics scratching their heads searching for the answer.

Test your IQ and observation skills by trying to find the carrot hidden somewhere amongst the giraffes in this picture – yes, there is a carrot.

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Participants have been told that they could have 20/20 vision and the IQ of a genius if they manage to find the carrot in just seven seconds.

Grab a timer, set it to seven seconds, and prove your puzzle-solving skills.

Although it may seem like an ordinary image, this is no easy feat, and it takes the average person over a minute to find it.

Optical illusions are purposefully designed to trick our vision, and can be used as simple determiners of intelligence.

Dr Amber Johnston, a clinical psychologist in neuropsychology, said that brainteasers help to keep our brain active, young, and have a positive impact on mental wellbeing.

She said: “What is well understood about both the brain and mental health is that people are highly driven to pursue learning.

“Because we are naturally motivated towards challenge and learning, brainteasers fit into a fun category of hobbies that can improve our mental health.”

Optical illusions are widely regarded to help improve our attention spans, concentration, and overall cognitive abilities.

This illusion is made particularly tricky through the varying shades that the background offers.

The towering giraffes, impressive foliage and offers the perfect camouflage for the sneaky vegetable, as your eyes find it hard to focus on any one object.

But have you found the carrot hidden inside the image yet?

If you’d like some help, try breaking the image down into several sections. Then search each section slowly, one at a time.

If you found this puzzle too easy, try some of our other brain teasers.

Test your vision by trying to spot all of the Valentines-related words hiding amongst pink flowers, heart lollies and mobile phones in this image.

You definitely have 20/20 vision if you can find all six!

Or test your IQ by trying to find the ballet dancer among the flamingos in just eight seconds.

Onlookers that find the dancer within eight seconds are thought to have a very high IQ.

This illusion is created to test your observational skills.

If you couldn’t find the carrot within seven seconds, don’t worry, we have the answer for you below.

We’ve also added three bonus puzzles for you.

Benefits of Optical illusions

RESEARCHERS have developed many tests that show how various brain regions react to optical illusions.

They are not only entertaining, but they also shed light on how our brains interpret visual data.

By giving your brain a little workout regularly, you enhance your ability to focus and observe details.

Studies have shown that people who regularly challenge themselves with optical illusions and puzzles improve their problem-solving skills, concentration and attention.

Improved concentration and attention span, in turn, can help prevent cognitive decline in older age.

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

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