Can mice distinguish color?

Mice are color blind; this means they can see colors, but not very well. The colors they see consist of dull yellows, grays and blues.

Humans and most mammals have three photo pigments in their eyes. The third photo pigment is what gives humans the ability to see vibrant colors. Mice only have two photo pigments in their eyes; therefore, without the third photo pigment, they cannot see the variety and vibrancy of colors like other mammals. Mice cannot see very well, but they have a great sense of hearing. They use their whiskers to help them feel their way around, especially at night when their eyes are practically useless.