A massive Pacific octopus impresses with its camera skills after taking over a videographer’s equipment underwater. John Roney, an experienced underwater videographer, along with his diving partner Chris Mullen, encountered a particularly sizable octopus measuring up to three meters wide while exploring Nanoose Bay on the east side of Vancouver Island, a renowned octopus habitat. The octopus, initially resting under a ledge, displayed interest in the divers as they passed by, eventually approaching them and taking over Roney’s camera to explore and even film the surroundings on its own.
The resulting video showcased the octopus’s mesmerizing pink underbelly and its arms spread out with suckers like an umbrella over the camera. Roney praised the octopus’s camera work, rating it a perfect “10 out of 10” for underwater videography. The footage, featuring the octopus’s unique perspective, garnered thousands of views and positive feedback online.
After its brief camera stint, the octopus engaged in a friendly interaction with Mullen, wrapping its arms around him and exploring his mask with its suckers. Roney captured this gentle encounter, highlighting the octopus’s curious and non-aggressive behavior. Despite having done approximately 1,500 dives, Roney emphasized the rarity and excitement of close interactions with octopuses, describing them as captivating and interactive creatures.
Marine biologist Jennifer Mather, an expert on octopuses from the University of Lethbridge in Alberta, analyzed the video, explaining that the octopus’s actions were driven by curiosity rather than an intention to take selfies. Mather highlighted the intelligence of octopuses, comparing their personalities to cats and noting their playful nature, particularly with objects like the camera observed in the video.
Overall, the community’s enthusiastic response to the video reflects a deep fascination with these intelligent and enigmatic marine creatures, showcasing the public’s interest in appreciating and understanding local marine life.