Dog? Duck? Rabbit? The beach cliff that has tourists and locals smiling and debating while they stroll

While there are numerous rock formations that clearly look like a specific animal – some example here – sometimes they can divide opinion like a gold, no blue, no gold, dress. And I enjoy spending plenty time at this one stunning beach where the shape is in view for the near 3,000 feet of beautiful sandy shore.

Visitors to Playa de Gerra in San Vicente, Cantabria, northern Spain, are finding themselves in lively debates over a peculiar cliff formation. The natural sculpture, shaped by years of erosion, presents an ambiguous profile that has sparked discussions among beachgoers. You can see an image of it above.

What animal do you see in the rock?

Some see a dog’s snout pointing toward the sea, while others argue it’s a duck’s bill or a rabbit’s ears. This optical illusion has become a delightful puzzle and talking point for the millions that stroll along the shore. In the summer it’s packed!

Local geologists explain that the cliff’s unique shape results from the region’s specific wind and water erosion patterns, as Cantabria gets hit at certain time of the year. The varying perceptions depend on the viewer’s angle and imagination.

As with many of these curiosities, it often only works from certain views, and the following image from above doesn’t play the same game with our minds.

Whether you see a dog, duck, rabbit, or something else entirely, the cliff at Playa de Gerra offers a charming mystery that continues to engage and entertain all who visit. And there are so many other spectacular photo opportunities while you’re there, this one at dusk looking away from the rock.

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