The octopus is one of my favourite creatures. This is mostly because they are so intelligent and have distinct personalities- and because they also change colour! Octopus are also very sneaky and hard to find in the open during the day. So then how do you find an octopus on your next vacation for a super cool photo op?
Well my friends, finding the elusive octopus requires you to think like an octopus. Octopus in general are somewhat lazy, stick to distinct routines and live in dens or nests. Being nocturnal hunters, they spend most of the daylight hiding in their homes. The easiest way to spot an elusive cepholopod during the day is to search out their residence.
Typically these eight armed bandits will eat shellfish, snails clams and the like which all have indigestible shells. Much like the lazy in our society, the octopus will leave his empty food packages around his cave. Knowing this, it is easiest to search first for small mounds of shells and then look for the hole in which Mr. Octopus lives.
Once you have found a good pile of shells next start looking for the octopus’ eyes. Now the eyes on an octopus are one of the only bits he cant change colour and texture. You are looking for black slits, not your traditional mammalian eyeballs. Also look for his eye stalks which make a little U.
Using these hints there is good chance you will have found and will be able to observe the octopus as he rests in his home. While it is never a good idea to taunt or pester an octopus, some can be coaxed out of their holes. This is done by either placing and interesting object within reach of their hole (octopuses are very curious) or by dropping a piece of food. With some luck you might be able to see him stick our a tentacle and carefully, snatch the object back into the cave.
It should be known as well that an octopus in the open is usually uncomfortable and will show how pissed off he is by turning a reddy brown colour and leaving like Jack the Bear. So if you happen to come across an octopus outside his hole, try not to frighten him, move slow and you might just get some great shots!
Oh and fun fact, its Octopuses not Octopi .
-Chris
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