Watch This Massive Octopus Fit Through a Tiny Hole and Win Its Freedom

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Written by Sharon Parry

Published: November 22, 2023

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Giant Pacific Octopus - Enteroctopus dofleini
© Christopher R Mazza/iStock via Getty Images

The giant Pacific octopus in this clip has no intention of staying on the boat! These brilliant creatures continue to amaze us with their abilities. The octopus in this clip has identified a small hole in the corner of the deck and immediately heads towards it. Even though it seems impossible for such a giant octopus to fit through such a small hole, it does! Within a few minutes, it is back in the ocean where it belongs.

Where Do Giant Pacific Octopuses Normally Live?

close up of an octopus

The Giant Pacific Octopus is the most prominent member of the octopus family.

©iStock.com/izanbar

These are just one of hundreds of species of octopuses that are found in oceans all over the world. As its name suggests, this particular species is located in the Pacific Ocean. They have been recorded as far north as the Alaskan Aleutian Islands and south as the Baja California region of Mexico. They are even found in Japan.

Regarding habitat, these saltwater creatures are usually found in tidal pools up to a depth of around 350 feet, but some have been spotted a lot deeper than that. They typically hide in dens or lairs found under boulders and rock crevices. Their ideal habitat is soft mud or sand, with a few boulders dotted around for shelter. They are often found in large numbers near dense kelp (seaweed) fields. Because they are ectothermic, they rely on the water temperature to keep them warm. Their optimal water temperature is between 7 and 9.5 degrees Celsius. These are one of the largest species of octopus, and some weigh more than 150 pounds.

How Do Giant Pacific Octopuses Normally Behave?

These are generally solitary and peaceful creatures. They often spend weeks alone in their den and only leave when they need to capture food or mate. They are typically considered a timid species and are rarely aggressive towards humans. However, this can happen if they are challenged. They use their suckers to provide an acute sense of touch and taste. They are very good at navigating landmarks, and the octopus in this clip quickly found its way around the deck of a boat! Some of these octopuses have been known to interact with humans, and some even have a playful personality! They have a reputation as notorious escape artists, as is perfectly illustrated by this clip.  


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About the Author

Dr Sharon Parry is a writer at A-Z animals where her primary focus is on dogs, animal behavior, and research. Sharon holds a PhD from Leeds University, UK which she earned in 1998 and has been working as a science writer for the last 15 years. A resident of Wales, UK, Sharon loves taking care of her spaniel named Dexter and hiking around coastlines and mountains.

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